🔎 What You'll Discover in This Episode:
A thrilling showdown between Shingo Takagi and Drilla Maloney, packed with hard-hitting moments and strategic counters.
Shota Umino’s bold new chapter, complete with a symbolic head shave and a stunning win over Jeff Cobb.
Yuya Uemura's technical brilliance against David Finlay and the impressive resilience on display.
The emotional clash between former tag team partners, Taichi and Zack Sabre Jr., highlighting the depth of their personal and professional bond.
Hey wrestling fans! The New Japan Cup 2025 continues to deliver intense matchups and layered storytelling, and I’m here to dissect it all for you.
March 15th brought us an unforgettable set of matches that showcased the very best of what NJPW has to offer. From hard-hitting action to emotional storytelling, every match was a testament to the dedication and talent of these wrestlers. And trust me, I’ve got a lot to say about it!
We saw Shingo Takagi take on Drilla Maloney in a battle of brute strength and resilience. Shota Umino, still on his path to self-discovery, clashed with Jeff Cobb in a match that spoke volumes about his evolving journey. Yuya Uemura continued to prove he belongs at the top tier as he faced off against David Finlay, a man who knows how to control the pace and tell a powerful story in the ring. And of course, emotions ran high in the showdown between former partners Taichi and Zack Sabre Jr.
Shingo Takagi vs. Drilla Moloney
The night opened with a hard-hitting contest between Shingo Takagi and Drilla Moloney. From the moment the bell rang, both men came out swinging. No feeling-out process, no tentative exchanges — just two warriors determined to dominate. Drilla Moloney, representing the Bullet Club War Dogs, had a lot to prove against a former world champion like Shingo.
What stood out to me was the physicality. Shingo, as always, showcased his relentless offense, but Drilla wasn't backing down. We saw him dish out brutal suplexes and stiff forearms, proving why he belongs in the conversation of rising stars. Despite Drilla’s grit, Shingo’s veteran instincts gave him the edge. After dodging a spear and countering with a well-timed Death Valley Driver, Shingo secured the victory.
But the real story here? Drilla Moloney’s resilience. Losses like this often fuel the next chapter in a wrestler’s career. I’ll be keeping my eyes on him.
Shota Umino’s Second Chapter: The Search for Identity
Shota Umino’s match against Jeff Cobb wasn’t just a physical contest — it was a symbol of Shota’s personal struggle to find his identity. Coming to the ring in all-white gear, with a freshly shaved head, Shota made it clear he’s shedding his old self and starting fresh. But a clean slate doesn't mean the path is any easier.
Jeff Cobb, the powerhouse that he is, was an enormous challenge. His brute strength is unmatched, and for Shota to step into the ring against such a force speaks volumes about his determination. Yet it wasn’t just about surviving; it was about proving to himself and the world that he has what it takes. And while Shota’s delayed fisherman suplex, dubbed the "Second Chapter," may not be the most visually stunning finisher, it represents something deeper. It’s a statement — a physical manifestation of his ongoing evolution.
But is shedding his old identity enough? As I’ve said before, I firmly believe Shota needs to step into the lion’s den and confront Jon Moxley. After all, how can you truly find yourself if you’re still haunted by the shadows of your past? Moxley’s lingering influence on Shota’s career is undeniable, and it’s time for him to break free. I break down why that confrontation is necessary and how it could shape Shota’s future in NJPW.
Yuya Uemura vs. David Finlay
Next up, we had a technical clinic between Yuya Uemura and David Finlay. Finlay is the definition of a ring general. His ability to adapt mid-match is why NJPW continues to bet big on him. And let’s not ignore Yuya’s performance — the man has those Ricky Steamboat-style arm drags down to a science!
One thing I loved about this match was the subtle psychology. Yuya targeted Finlay’s arms, not just as a wrestling move, but as a strategy. Every chop, every hold, it all served a purpose. Finlay, however, was quick to counter and adjusted his approach with veteran precision. His ring awareness and resilience are what set him apart as a true leader in the ring.
Yuya displayed a level of determination that can't be ignored. He pushed Finlay to his limits, using a series of calculated submissions and strikes. There were moments when it seemed like Yuya might pull off an upset, especially when he locked in a deep armbar that had Finlay scrambling for the ropes.
But Finlay wasn’t going to be outmatched. His brute strength combined with his technical prowess gave him the upper hand when it mattered most. After a brutal powerbomb and his signature Into Oblivion finisher, Finlay secured the win. Yet, the real story here was Yuya's growth and how he continues to prove that he belongs in NJPW's upper echelon.
Matches like these are a reminder of how far Yuya has come and how much further he can go. Finlay may have walked away with the victory, but Yuya Uemura walked away with the respect of fans and wrestlers alike. And in pro wrestling, sometimes that’s even more valuable.
Taichi vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
And then, the emotional gut punch: Taichi vs. Zack Sabre Jr. Former partners. Best friends. Now opponents in the New Japan Cup. The weight of their shared history was felt in every exchange. Taichi’s hesitation, Zack’s determination — it was all there, plain as day.
At one point, Taichi grabbed a chair, the crowd visibly torn. Would he actually use it? It’s moments like this that make wrestling an art form. The struggle between loyalty and ambition. While Zack ultimately walked away with the victory using a technical pin, this match left us with more questions than answers.
What’s next for Taichi? And will Zack Sabre Jr. keep this momentum heading into the semifinals? Trust me, I’ve got thoughts.
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