Jump to content

[CVerse] Black Canvas Grappling: Defenders of Puroresu


Recommended Posts

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="sFlfWPy.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/sFlfWPy.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><img alt="3nSIDdW.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/3nSIDdW.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div><p></p><p></p><p>

This time Maeda didn't have to knock. I invited him for our promised chat as soon as the final show of the Grand Prix was over.</p><p> </p><p>

<em>"You seem to be in a good mood, Maeda-san"</em> I pointed out, before offering him a seat and something to drink.</p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Putting together the Grand Prix is no small feat, my friend"</em> he said with a smile of obvious satisfaction. <em>"You've pulled it off nicely, had us all guessing till the end. I was pretty sure myself that Miura would make it to the final. He could use the exposure, after all."</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Miura hasn't even hit his peak yet"</em> I bit back with a smile of my own. Despite our friendly tone, we were both aware of what was really being communicated here. <em>"And besides, Yoshizawa left him to find his own footing as a singles competitor. That gave me ample excuse to make him come close, but not all the way. He'll have his chance eventually. Couldn't risk having our Grand Prix winner signed by a bigger company like we lost Findlay."</em></p><p> </p><p>

Maeda's expression got a little softer. Despite losing the smile, that was actually a good thing. <em>"You played it safe then. And what about the Tag Team contenders?"</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Loyalty should be rewarded. It's all we have in times like these, with everyone hitting us from all sides. Besides, now I've also secured the main event for Test of Champions. Funakoshi and Torii won't be leaving us for another company."</em></p><p> </p><p>

Maeda nodded. It was all good, but he wasn't hearing what he wanted to hear. <em>"And who will face Team Taku at Test of Champions then?"</em> he asked again, this time blunt.</p><p> </p><p>

<em>"I have a few ideas"</em> I said to buy myself some time. <em>"The obvious choice is to replace Findlay with Brody. American Demolition Mk. II or something. Smith is still in it so the TagMania win doesn't feel like it was in vain; they have a right to fight for the titles, even if tarnished. They're both big gaijin. My only concern is Brody was an utter disappointment in the Grand Prix."</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"That he was"</em> said Maeda with a serious tone. <em>"Perhaps you shouldn't have had him finish with more points than Matsuzawa."</em></p><p> </p><p>

There he was. That's where he was getting to all along.</p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Brody is a gaijin monster heel, Maeda-san"</em> I said, trying to sound more confident than angry or defensive. <em>"A terrible one, but a monster nonetheless. He couldn't finish last and neither could Matsushita, even if they both sucked. It would destroy their credibility forever and there's not much else they could do to hope for a repackage. Same thing with the A Block. Suzuki is good, but he's fresh here; he finished low, but came away with a title shot. As for Okimasa, I'll agree he did better than his point total would suggest, but he was stuck in there with the stars and the veterans."</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"And what are the other options besides American Demolition Mk II?"</em> the sly fox turned things around again. There was a certain irony to the tone he used when uttering that team's name. It probably felt like a cheap knock-off to his eyes, but there was only so much I could do in our position. <em>"Shiga and Miyake have great chemistry, but I can't justify them getting a title shot out of nowhere. Besides, Miyake is still a young lion, as soon as people see the matchup they'll know he' the one who'll take the pin. No, that's a plan for long term development, use Shiga to teach Miyake."</em></p><p> </p><p>

Finally, ideas were starting to flood my mind. <em>"Another option is to put Matsuzawa or Okimasa there. Use the tour to try out combinations that might work, besides the ones they teamed with for TagMania. Make up for keeping them down in the Grand Prix. If not..."</em> I turned to face him in the eye <em>"I really want to deviate as little as possible from the original plan, Maeda-san. American Demolition won TagMania and American Demolition should be the ones to wrestle for the title, even if they do so with a different lineup. If Brody can't be trusted, Animal Harker will have to step up."</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Why not just bring the Berzerkers back for the match?"</em> he asked me, as if he didn't even register my suggestions. <em>"They're better workers and more popular in Japan."</em></p><p> </p><p>

I knew it was a trap.</p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Because the Berzerkers made it to the finals and lost to American Demolition"</em> I responded confidently. <em>"Hand them the shot and it's like you're rewarding them for failure. Any credibility Smith and American Demolition got from winning the tournament disappears."</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>"Very well"</em> he conceded. <em>"But this is a great opportunity to scout the international market, mind you. Lot of good talent to be brought in.</em></p><p> </p><p>

I had won. I knew I had. <em>"You mean like the Ring Generals I brought in for TagMania? I am well aware, my friend. You of all people know best, there's a method to my madness. We've earned ourselves a first crop of loyal young lions and thanks to the tournament, we know Okimasa and Matsuzawa can be the midcard backbone to fill the gap between the rookies and main eventers. Now it's time to deal with the gaijin; rid ourselves of dead weight like Brody and bring in some fresh faces. I promise you this, Test of Champions will be truly worthy to its name."</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Replies 274
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W2 of April 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Toyama Hall, Chubu</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 622</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a decent match, Bunrakuken Torii, Yoshisada Matsuzawa and Rokuemon Matsushita defeated Blast Ikoma, Sofu Ozawa and Kiyotaka in 10:30 when Yoshisada Matsuzawa defeated Kiyotaka by pinfall with a Double Arm DDT.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>"Machine Gun" Bunrakuken Torii once again carried this match from bell to bell, adding some variety between his rapid fire chops thanks to some improved Rumble skills while Matsushita also had improvement in the same area, apparent in his slams and big power moves. Boasting a good mix of star power, experience and energy in both teams, the opening bout got the show off going strong, raising the hopes of BCG fans in Chubu who have been subject to some disappointing shows lately by the promotion.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Bulldozer Brandon Smith and Giant Brody defeated Shiga & Miyake in 10:13 when Giant Brody defeated Motoyuki Miyake by pinfall with a Single Handed Choke Slam.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>The match definitely got the crowd hotter thanks to a combination of Smith's in-ring work and Brody's dominant performance, but it was Motoyuki Miyake that really impressed with his work, largely aided by his chemistry when teaming with the veteran Shiga.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Naonobu Murakami defeated Gidayu Katou in 9:38 by pinfall with a Belly To Belly Suplex.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>An interesting master vs apprentice matchup, given that Murakami is known to have taken Katou under his wing backstage. Both men went above and beyond in the ten or so minutes this lasted, with Murakami improving his Performance skills and Katou topping his master's in-ring work despite ultimately taking the pin.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Noritoshi Miura in 21:20 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Just one night after the big final show of the Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix, winner Funakoshi clashed with his block's runner up. With both men battered from the gruelling tournament and their Grand Prix match having ended as a time limit draw, this match had all the potential of being one for the ages and the competitors were well aware of it, pacing themselves for a slow, methodical spectacle that kept on escalating towards a big climatic finish. Momentum of the fight swung back and forth several times in a very evenly matched bout and both wrestlers obviously improved their Performance skills, but it was Funakoshi who really shone in the squared circle. Pushing the match past the twenty minute mark to reference their tournament draw, Funakoshi proved he's the undisputed and well-deserved man on top by finally putting an end to it all with a devastating Butterfly Backbreaker.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>It really is a shame how inferior Production Values brought the overall show grade down despite a stellar main event, but at least it was good enough to compensate fans for previous events in the area and bring some of them back into the fold.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p>Grand Prix finals made a lot of sense, and I can't say I'm not hyped up for Funakoshi/Torii.</p><p> </p><p>

Really enjoyed the backstage segment, characterization-wise you've done a whole lot with very little and that's impressive.</p><p> </p><p>

Glad to see Miura stepping up in a big way in the main event of this past tour. I thought Brody really surprised me in his last Grand Prix match but he may have been the weak link in that encounter as well. If his team with Brody doesn't work out, I'd love to have some Bulldozer press conferences where he basically says anyone who can pin him can challenge for the tag titles with him, and have him just go through guys until someone tough enough shows up.</p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Thursday, W3 of April 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Shimonoseki Hall, Chugoku</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 241</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Sofu Ozawa and Kyuichi Matsumoto defeated Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake in 10:06 when Sofu Ozawa defeated Motoyuki Miyake by pinfall with an Arm-Trap Belly To Back Suplex.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Shiga and Miyake are getting better at their whole master-apprentice act that builds on their chemistry. Between that and Matsumoto having improved his Performance skills, this mirror image opener got the fans going and warmed up the crowd sufficiently for what was to come.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Blast Ikoma and Nobuharu Yokokawa defeated Bunrakuken Torii and Yoshisada Matsuzawa in 16:23 when Nobuharu Yokokawa defeated Yoshisada Matsuzawa by submission with a Stump Puller.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>With one champion in each team, this match had a lot of potential to set up a future title bout down the road and even though it ultimately did not, the concept along with the workers' performance was enough to captivate the audience and make for a great semi main event.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Yoshinaka Taku in 20:35 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Slowly trying his hand at being a singles wrestler, Yoshinaka Taku had a chance to showcase both his ability and improved Performance skills away from the shadow of his father and up against the 2016 Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix winner. Not an easy fight at all and one he had no shame in losing, Taku still held his own in a slowly built bout with Funakoshi before succumbing to the Butterfly Backbreaker</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Production Value penalties aside, this was the best touring show BCG has produced thus far and is bound to bring in new fans in the area to the promotion.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W3 of April 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Kochi Halls, Shikoku</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 180</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had sub-par wrestling and little heat, Bulldozer Brandon Smith and Animal Harker defeated MUSCLE Serizawa and Shuzo Utagawa in 9:48 when Animal Harker defeated Shuzo Utagawa by pinfall with a Stump Piledriver.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another strong start to the show with the team of gaijin monsters squashing a pair of young lions. Smith and Utagawa seemed to have improved their Performance skills while Smith had a nice chain wrestling with Utagawa that allowed him to showcase his improved Technical skills.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Toshinobu Taku defeated Omezo Shikitei in 9:43 by pinfall with a Gutwrench Tombstone.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Much like his son in the previous BCG show, Toshinobu Taku wrestled a singles match and his opponent was youngster Omezo Shikitei, who got the rub from the experience to learn how to better utilize both his Performance and Technical skills. A rough trial for both aged veteran and inexperienced rookie, the match kept fans engaged for the ten or so minutes it lasted, setting up the main event next.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Hitomaro Suzuki defeated Naonobu Murakami in 21:24 by submission with a Suzuki Lock.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another pairing that ended their Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix match with a draw, Murakami and Suzuki were given the extra time to reach a conclusive finish in this one. Pacing themselves to use psychology and slowly build towards a climatic finish, the two men wrestled a good match in which the #1 contender for Yokokawa's BCG Challengers title proved he did not earn his shot by luck or accident. Finally submitting the veteran Murakami after twenty plus minutes in the match, Suzuki got another big win in his resume as he's building momentum towards his title match.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Not as good as the show that preceded it due to most main eventers not being on the card, this one was still good enough to rope in new fans for BCG in the region, despite the usual Production Value penalties.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Thursday, W4 of April 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Fukuoka Hall, Kyushu</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 224</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Yoriie Ippitsusai and Sharaku Okimasa defeated Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake in 9:36 when Sharaku Okimasa defeated Motoyuki Miyake by submission with a Scorpion Deathlock.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Slowly becoming a regular tag team, Shiga and Miyake still pile up the losses as they establish themselves, though Miyake did impress with his in-ring performance once again. On the opposite end, Ippitsusai held his own despite nearing retirement, while Okimasa picked up the win to recover some of the momentum he'd lost during the Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Blast Ikoma and Sofu Ozawa defeated Bunrakuken Torii and Naozane Goto in 9:47 when Blast Ikoma defeated Naozane Goto by pinfall.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>An interesting matchup for the main event as Ikoma teamed up with the aging but experienced Ozawa against champion Torii and the young but massive Goto. Both the young lion and Ikoma were obviously better in terms of Performance skills even if the best overall in-ring performance belonged to Torii. Predictably, Goto lost but it took quite some effort, since Ikoma had no chance of using his vast array of suplexes on him, including his usual finishing maneuver.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Naonobu Murakami in 21:07 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another stellar puroresu showdown between traditionalist Funakoshi and the straightforward brawler Murakami, the main even was slowly built, open-ended and masterfully executed. Despite sharpening his Performance skills, Murakami took the fall, adding both momentum and an aura of legitimacy to the 2016 Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix winner.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>The usual juxtaposition of great wrestling but poor production values is quickly becoming BCG's thing, reflecting the promotion's overall status as having a roster of skilled talent but limited finances to better showcase it.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W4 of April 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Gunma Hall, Kanto</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 300 (sold out)</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a poor match, Giant Brody and Eikichi Itou defeated Noritoshi Miura and Kiyotaka in 9:33 when Giant Brody defeated Kiyotaka by pinfall with a Single Handed Choke Slam.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Heavyweights Brody and Itou teamed up to win the opener, despite Itou seeming slightly off his game but having improved his Performance skills. Not the flashiest of bouts, but it did the job of warming up the crowd alright, getting the show off on a strong start.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Rokuemon Matsushita and Kadonomaro Kamisaka defeated Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake in 10:04 when Kadonomaro Kamisaka defeated Motoyuki Miyake by submission with a Triangle Choke.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Slightly off his usual game, Shiga let his teammate down for the count despite their usual chemistry making for some nice double team spots. Matsushita was on-point with his usual power game, but it was Kamisaka who really stole the show here, rightfully scoring the submission after having shown considerable improvement in his Rumble, Technical and Performance skills.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Blast Ikoma in 20:46 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Revisiting their Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix finals bout as the main event for the all-important Kanto area show, Funakoshi and Ikoma had a chance to provide an alternative match as they were not wrestling two matches on the same night. Funakoshi came out on top after clearly having outwrestled Ikoma in a methodical, slowly climaxing match, but Ikoma came out of it with a much better grasp of Rumble and Technical skills.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Not good enough to put them in the lead of the Regional Wars in the area, the show was still good enough to earn BCG some new fans in Kanto.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Thursday, W1 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Muroran Hall, Hokkaido</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 253</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Bunrakuken Torii and Gidayu Katou defeated Sofu Ozawa and Shuzo Utagawa in 9:51 when Bunrakuken Torii defeated Shuzo Utagawa by pinfall with a Spinning Forearm Smash.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Showing some sharper Performance skills between the ropes, champion Bunrakuken Torii carried the opening match from bell to bell, even scoring the pinfall to fire up the live crowd.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Nobuharu Yokokawa defeated Yoshisada Matsuzawa in 9:49 by submission with a Stump Puller.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>A good showing from both men, with title holder Yokokawa picking up the win while Matsuzawa once again earned himself fans despite the loss, no less thanks to some honed Performance skills.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Yoshinaka Taku defeated Naonobu Murakami in 20:36 by pinfall with a Full Nelson Bomb.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Aided by the apparent chemistry between its two competitor, the main event ended up being even better than expected, further establishing Taku as a legitimately dangerous opponent after managing to defeat the veteran Murakami.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Fortunately for BCG, the show was boosted by an unexpectedly good main event to earn them new fans in the much contested area of Hokkaido.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W1 of April 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Matsumoto Hall, Tohoku</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 258</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a decent match, Team Taku defeated Funakoshi and Yoriie Ippitsusai in 9:35 when Toshinobu Taku defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai by pinfall with a Taku Tag Treatment.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Despite only there to warm up the crowd, the opener got a great reaction thanks to Funakoshi's presence, along with the experience of Team Taku and the ever-improving performances of Yoshinaka Taku himself. Yoriie Ippitsusai was, understandably, the weakest link in the mix as he nears retirement and thus got pinned, but not before Funakoshi had a chance to showcase some improved Performance skills.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Hitomaro Suzuki and Omezo Shikitei defeated Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake in 9:47 when Omezo Shikitei defeated Motoyuki Miyake by submission with a STF.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Hitomaro Suzuki really shone in this match, even if he wasn't the one scoring the pin, which went to Shikitei who's trying to establish himself as a credible midcarder in the company.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Blast Ikoma defeated Noritoshi Miura in 20:33 by pinfall with a Northern Lights Bomb.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>The polar opposite of the match that opened the show, the main event was brought down by both competitors being sloppy and seeming to have a bad night. Ikoma was borderline better within the ropes, but the match will not go down in history as one of the year's finest any time soon.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Despite the main event tanking, BCG were lucky enough to have it happen in an area where their popularity is limited, so in total the show still earned the promotion some new fans, despite constant penalties for inferior Production Values.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG Test of Champions Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Thursday, W2 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Shimonoseki Hall, Chugoku</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 200</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Animal Harker and Bulldozer Brandon Smith defeated Giant Brody and Naozane Goto in 10:01 when Bulldozer Brandon Smith defeated Naozane Goto by pinfall with a Backdrop Driver.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>An straightforward hoss hustle, the opener had four of BCG's biggest men slug it out to get the fans going. Between Harker's improved Rumble skills and Smith's outstanding performance, their team rightfully won the match after heavyweight Smith was able to hit the Backdrop Driver on Goto.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Bunrakuken Torii and Sharaku Okimasa defeated Rokuemon Matsushita and Sofu Ozawa in 9:51 when Bunrakuken Torii defeated Sofu Ozawa by pinfall with a Spinning Forearm Smash.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Once again, Torii carried this tag match with his performance, a job made even harder by the fact that big man Matsushita and veteran grappler Ozawa don't seem to function well as a team, with their timing being all over the place to actually hinder instead of assist them.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Nobuharu Yokokawa defeated Naonobu Murakami in 20:52 by submission with a Stump Puller.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>The next chapter in Murakami's ongoing struggle to break his losing streak, this match provided him with a chance to do so in a big way, as pinning Yokokawa would earn him a shot at the BCG Challengers Series title in the future. However, Yokokawa proved he's championship material in the end, defeating Murakami after having wrestled significantly better than him. Silver lining for the loser, his Performance skills improvement.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Last show of the tour before BCG Test of Champions, another decent show to earn BCG new fans in the area despite inferior Production Values.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>Black Canvas Grappling presents</strong></p><p><strong> </strong><img alt="Cp2WGfo.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/Cp2WGfo.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p><p><strong> BCG Test of Champions</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="45613" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><div style="text-align:center;"><p>Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa & MUSCLE Serizawa vs Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou & Kyuichi Matsumoto</p><p> Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita & Omezo Shikitei vs Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody & Sharaku Okimasa</p><p> Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake vs Naozane Goto & Kiyotaka</p><p> BCG World Tag Team titles match: American Demolition Mk.II (Animal Harker & Bulldozer Brandon Smith) vs Team Taku</p><p> Yoshisada Matsuzawa vs Yoriie Ippitsusai</p><p> BCG Challengers Series title match: Nobuharu Yokokawa vs Hitomaro Suzuki</p><p> Naonobu Murakami vs Kadonomaro Kamisaka</p><p> BCG World title match: Bunrakuken Torii vs Funakoshi</p></div><p></p><p></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> <em>Black Canvas Grappling would like to congratulate Haruki Kudo and wish him luck as the reinstated CEO of Golden Canvas Grappling after the untimely passing of his predecessor, Hanshiro Furusawa, at age 66 last month.</em></p>
Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p><strong>Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa & MUSCLE Serizawa</strong> vs Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou & Kyuichi Matsumoto</p><p>

<strong>Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita & Omezo Shikitei</strong> vs Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody & Sharaku Okimasa</p><p>

<strong>Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake</strong> vs Naozane Goto & Kiyotaka</p><p>

BCG World Tag Team titles match: American Demolition Mk.II (Animal Harker & Bulldozer Brandon Smith) vs <strong>Team Taku</strong></p><p>

<strong>Yoshisada Matsuzawa</strong> vs Yoriie Ippitsusai</p><p>

BCG Challengers Series title match: <strong>Nobuharu Yokokawa</strong> vs Hitomaro Suzuki</p><p>

Naonobu Murakami vs <strong>Kadonomaro Kamisaka</strong></p><p>

BCG World title match: <strong>Bunrakuken Torii</strong> vs Funakoshi</p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p><strong>Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa & MUSCLE Serizawa</strong> vs Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou & Kyuichi Matsumoto</p><p>

<strong>Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita & Omezo Shikitei</strong> vs Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody & Sharaku Okimasa</p><p>

<strong>Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake</strong> vs Naozane Goto & Kiyotaka</p><p>

BCG World Tag Team titles match: American Demolition Mk.II (Animal Harker & Bulldozer Brandon Smith) vs <strong>Team Taku</strong>: Father/son goals. Baby Taku is really good, one of my favorite BCG guys.</p><p>

<strong>Yoshisada Matsuzawa</strong> vs Yoriie Ippitsusai</p><p>

BCG Challengers Series title match: <strong>Nobuharu Yokokawa</strong> vs Hitomaro Suzuki: Unless Yokokawa is on TD, he's usually surprisingly great. </p><p>

Naonobu Murakami vs <strong>Kadonomaro Kamisaka</strong></p><p>

BCG World title match: Bunrakuken Torii vs <strong>Funakoshi</strong>: Funakoshi 4 lyf.</p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p><strong>Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa & MUSCLE Serizawa</strong> vs Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou & Kyuichi Matsumoto</p><p>

<strong>Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita & Omezo Shikitei</strong> vs Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody & Sharaku Okimasa</p><p>

<strong>Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake</strong> vs Naozane Goto & Kiyotaka</p><p>

BCG World Tag Team titles match: American Demolition Mk.II (Animal Harker & Bulldozer Brandon Smith) vs <strong>Team Taku</strong></p><p>

<strong>Yoshisada Matsuzawa</strong> vs Yoriie Ippitsusai</p><p>

BCG Challengers Series title match: <strong>Nobuharu Yokokawa</strong> vs Hitomaro Suzuki</p><p>

Naonobu Murakami vs <strong>Kadonomaro Kamisaka</strong></p><p>

BCG World title match: Bunrakuken Torii vs <strong>Funakoshi</strong></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p>Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa & MUSCLE Serizawa vs <strong>Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou & Kyuichi Matsumoto</strong></p><p>

<strong>Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita & Omezo Shikitei</strong> vs Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody & Sharaku Okimasa</p><p>

<strong>Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake</strong> vs Naozane Goto & Kiyotaka</p><p>

BCG World Tag Team titles match: American Demolition Mk.II (Animal Harker & Bulldozer Brandon Smith) vs <strong>Team Taku</strong></p><p>

<strong>Yoshisada Matsuzawa</strong> vs Yoriie Ippitsusai</p><p>

BCG Challengers Series title match: Nobuharu Yokokawa vs <strong>Hitomaro Suzuki</strong></p><p>

<strong>Naonobu Murakami</strong> vs Kadonomaro Kamisaka</p><p>

BCG World title match: Bunrakuken Torii vs <strong>Funakoshi</strong></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Black Canvas Grappling presents

Cp2WGfo.jpg

BCG Test of Champions

Friday, W2 of May 2016

Osaka Athletic Stadium, Kinki

Attendance: 2.670

 

DccXUpR.jpgdlVXejX.jpgP2JXnpv.jpg25UZG0h.pngMkIWjY4.jpgdQi7xWJ.jpgoLfE0Uv.jpg

Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa & MUSCLE Serizawa vs Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou & Kyuichi Matsumoto

A decent opener to start the show strong, this 3 vs 3 match had a lot of fan interaction to get the fans going for what came next. Gidayu Katou stole the show here, in large part due to the fact that he had to make up for his teammates' disappointing performances. On the opposite end, veteran Ozawa had a tight grip on the flow of the match at all times, a valuable detail given how off his game Serizawa seemed despite his improved Performance skills.

In a bout that had sub-par wrestling and little heat, Sofu Ozawa, Shuzo Utagawa and MUSCLE Serizawa defeated Gidayu Katou, Eikichi Itou and Kyuichi Matsumoto in 10:29 when Sofu Ozawa defeated Kyuichi Matsumoto by pinfall with an Arm-Trap Belly To Back Suplex.

Rating: D-

 

xH5san9.jpgvkE7DNZ.jpg8705zCX.jpg25UZG0h.pngoKYyc4s.jpgXebEMH0.jpga92CBvx.jpg

Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita & Omezo Shikitei vs Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody & Sharaku Okimasa

Blast Ikoma carried the match and his team in general here, it may have come at a great cost though as he ended up dislocating his shoulder by the final bell after Giant Brody botched a shoulderbreaker. He and Matsushita, who was also pretty good going up against big man Brody, showed a better grip of Performance skills, but it was Shikitei who managed to get the pin in the end.

In a decent match, Blast Ikoma, Rokuemon Matsushita and Omezo Shikitei defeated Noritoshi Miura, Giant Brody and Sharaku Okimasa in 16:12 when Omezo Shikitei defeated Giant Brody by submission with a Cross Armbreaker.

Rating: D+

 

7VXjYUs.jpgS5oggAX.jpg25UZG0h.pngCuHyCWZ.jpg32BXfva.jpg

Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake vs Naozane Goto & Kiyotaka

Another showcase of Shiga and Miyake's excellent chemistry, only this time they managed to come away with the victory. Goto may taken the pin in the end, but his in-ring performance was better than Kiyotaka's, plus he also seemed to have learned a thing or two about Performance skills thanks to getting the rub from Shiga.

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake defeated Naozane Goto and Kiyotaka in 9:53 when Motoyuki Miyake defeated Naozane Goto by pinfall with a Knock Out Kick.

Rating: D

 

SK5hp7P.jpgSK5hp7P.jpg

POBEZKK.jpg3rJ5hD0.jpg25UZG0h.pngpzwPD24.jpgSabbj9c.jpg

BCG World Tag Team titles match

American Demolition Mk.II (Animal Harker & Bulldozer Brandon Smith) vs Team Taku

With Animal Harker replacing the departed Big Bruiser Findlay, the second incarnation of American Demolition fought Team Taku in the first title match of the night. Though consistent, Harker wasn't exactly up to par with Findlay or the occasion, as even the aging Toshinobu Taku did better than him between the ropes, largely aided of course by the long experience of teaming with his son. Speaking of which, Yoshinobu Taku put up the best performance out of four, however there was no denying Bulldozer Brandon Smith; utilizing his skills to the maximum, Smith almost single-handedly won the titles for his team, dethroning Team Taku to crown himself and Harker not only champions, but also BCG's premier gaijin threats.

In a decent match, American Demolition Mk.II defeated Team Taku in 9:37 when Bulldozer Brandon Smith defeated Toshinobu Taku by pinfall with a Backdrop Driver. American Demolition Mk.II win the BCG World Tag Team titles.

Rating: C-

 

mR1hQ6m.jpg25UZG0h.pngIV914xI.jpg

Yoshisada Matsuzawa vs Yoriie Ippitsusai

Moving on to singles matchups but still giving the fans a breather after the tag title match, Matsuzawa picked up a quick win over veteran Ippitsusai while also showing improvement in his Performance skills. After a series of good performances but disappointing results in this year's Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix, Matsuzawa finally got a win and hopefully it will be enough to get him back on the right track.

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Yoshisada Matsuzawa defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai in 9:04 by pinfall with a Double Arm DDT.

Rating: D

 

MXJ65pr.jpg

stfprsK.jpg25UZG0h.pngtfcFhGn.jpg

BCG Challengers Series title match

Nobuharu Yokokawa vs Hitomaro Suzuki

Set up after Suzuki's surprise win over the champion during the Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix, the match was beautifully paced to constantly go faster and harder as the two competitors traded blows, throws, slams and grapples leading to the big climatic finish. Making his first defense of the title, Yokokawa silenced his critics and shattered any notion of him being a transitional champion by forcing Suzuki to tap out to the Stump Puller. Despite the loss, Suzuki looked strong in defeat and will no doubt find himself winning a title down the road sooner or later if he can keep performing at such a level.

In a decent match, Nobuharu Yokokawa defeated Hitomaro Suzuki in 15:57 by submission with a Stump Puller. Nobuharu Yokokawa makes defence number 1 of his BCG Challengers Series title.

Rating: C

 

GVOFAYk.jpg25UZG0h.png5gSOwr6.jpg

Naonobu Murakami vs Kadonomaro Kamisaka

Providing a breather between title matches, this one saw veteran Murakami finally break his long losing streak with a win over "Serene K" Kadonomaro Kamisaka. It did help that Kamisaka seemed to be having a bad night despite him showing improvement as far as his Performance skills go, but it's likely that the slow methodical pace of the match did more harm than good.

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Naonobu Murakami defeated Kadonomaro Kamisaka in 15:50 by pinfall with a Belly To Belly Suplex.

Rating: D

 

sz24Eba.jpg

D4Mz47n.jpg25UZG0h.png8jfbhLn.jpg

BCG World title match

Bunrakuken Torii vs Funakoshi

2016 Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix winner got the reward for his victory in the form of main eventing Test of Champions with a shot against the reigning BCG World champion. Clearly two of the promotion's top stars, Torii and Funakoshi were given plenty of time to put together a match worthy of the situation, an option they took full advantage of to keep a slow build pace and use psychology to enhance their already impressive performances. Between Torii's machine gun chops and Funakoshi's super stiff strikes, this match was as strong style as they come, but it also featured plenty of grappling, with combos, submission holds, reversals and move-for-move back and forth in a pretty even bout. It took over thirty minutes for the match to reach a conclusive finish, but once Funakoshi hit the third Butterfly Backbreaker to finally keep Torii down for the count, the place exploded in cheers as streamers flew and the new champion was handed the title.

In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Bunrakuken Torii in 31:25 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker. Funakoshi wins the BCG World title.

Rating: B

 

Show Rating: C-

Comments: The main event was everything it had been built up to be, with the other title matches delivering as well and a pretty decent undercard before them. Production Values were an issue as usual, but there's still new BCG fans in Kinki as the dust settles. Both Funakoshi and Torii were praised for their hard work in the main event, while Blast Ikoma was also complimented for keeping his undercard match together, a consolation from him being kept so far from the top of the card.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W2 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Shizuoka Sports Hall, Chubu</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 300 (sold out)</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Giant Brody and Rokuemon Matsushita defeated Masayuki Shiga & Motoyuki Miyake in 9:46 when Giant Brody defeated Motoyuki Miyake by pinfall with a Single Handed Choke Slam.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Looks like there may be hope for Giant Brody after all. After two disappointing tournaments in 2016 already, teaming up with Matsushita may have just been enough to assure his continued booking by BCG as the two big men finally got their pacing right, their chemistry mirroring that of their opponents. Elevated by that and some improved Performance skills, Matsushita put up his best performance to date and the new team got the win over the veteran and young lion.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Naonobu Murakami defeated Yoshinaka Taku in 15:58 by pinfall with a Belly To Belly Suplex.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Once again chemistry elevating a match, this was a good bout between 24 year old Taku and the veteran Murakami who scored another win after showcasing some sharpened Performance skills. After losing the titles to American Demoliton Mk.II and with the Brody-Matsushita team looking to a long collaboration, this might just be the time for Taku to break away from his father's shadow.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Hitomaro Suzuki in 20:42 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Suzuki seems to be in good graces with the company's booking, this time given a headline spot against new champion Funakoshi despite losing his shot at Yokokawa's title at Test of Champions. While the match was good, this was mainly thanks to Funakoshi who held it together, as Suzuki's performance was not up to par and his selling especially came across as underwhelming more than once.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>BCG were off to a bad start in Chubu this year, but seem to be turning the tides with yet another good show that earned them several new fans despite inferior Production Values.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Sunday, W2 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Fukuoka Hall, Kyushu</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 186</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a poor match, Noritoshi Miura defeated Omezo Shikitei in 16:11 by pinfall with a Storm Rider.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Fatigue from a series of bouts seems to be finally taking its toll on Noritoshi Miura, who seemed gassed out by the end of the opening bout here. While this did drag his performance down a bit, he still had improvement in both his Technical and Performance skills to show for himself, plus he was able to score the victory against Shikitei in a bout that admittedly went on for quite a bit, given its purpose of simply warming up the crowd.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Nobuharu Yokokawa defeated Sofu Ozawa in 11:21 by submission with a Stump Puller.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>A much shorter match up next, kept purposely short to prevent the aging veteran Ozawa from showing his declining levels of stamina. The BCG Challengers Series champion was obviously the better wrestler here and rightfully got the win after a solid bout.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Bunrakuken Torii defeated Yoshisada Matsuzawa in 21:24 by pinfall with a Spinning Forearm Smash.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Matsuzawa was given a chance to shine here in the main event, capitalizing on his apparent chemistry with former champion Torii. Despite the loss, Matsuzawa showed a better grasp of the skills relevant to his Performance and showmanship, even if he wasn't up on the same level as Torii, who ended up winning the match.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>A small show in an area where BCG doesn't have a lot of fans, but still good enough to add a few new ones to the pool in Kyushu despite heavy penalties for inferior Production Values.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Thursday, W3 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Kochi Halls, Shikoku</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 136</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Partnership Of Pain defeated Shiga & Miyake in 7:47 when Rokuemon Matsushita defeated Motoyuki Miyake by pinfall with an One-Handed Choke Slam.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>The opening tag bout featured two of BCG's freshly forged tag teams, looking to add some teaming experience to the apparent chemistry in place. Now calling themselves the Partnership of Pain, Brody and Matsushita dominated the opening bout, with the former showing some improved Performance skills before the latter chokeslamed young lion Miyake for the pin, ending the match just short of eight minutes.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Naonobu Murakami defeated Yoshinaka Taku in 16:17 by pinfall with a Belly To Belly Suplex.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another pairing with documented chemistry in the ring, Murakami and Taku clashed in the semi-main event in a methodical, slowly climaxing battle the veteran won eventually. Despite his loss, 24 year old Taku really shone between the ropes, proving he's one of the company's finest workers, a true champion in waiting.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Sharaku Okimasa in 20:52 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Sharaku Okimasa had a disappointing point total by the end of this year's Yoshifusa Maeda Grand Prix, despite consistently good performances in the ring. His opponent for the night was the winner of that tournament who also moved on to capture the BCG World title, Funakoshi. Not many realistically expected Okimasa to win this fight, but the fact alone he managed to stay in the fight for over twenty minutes was a huge accomplishment nonetheless.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another one in the books for BCG, earning them new fans in a fringe region despite Production Value penalties.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W3 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Muroran Hall, Hokkaido</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 225</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Noritoshi Miura and Toshinobu Taku defeated Nobuharu Yokokawa and Yoriie Ippitsusai in 5:52 when Noritoshi Miura defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai by pinfall with a Storm Rider.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>A decent tag opener to the show, kept short in league with the two veterans' current abilities to prevent any weaknesses from dragging things down too much. Miura may have scored the pin, but Yokokawa was the one who really kept things together, adding some nasty submissions to his already feared arsenal of moves as he showcased his Technical skills progress. Treading new territory didn't come without a price though and Yokokawa apparently injured himself during a nasty twist of the arm. The BCG Challengers Series champion stayed in the match until the finish, but as he returned backstage it was obvious he was in much pain.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, American Demolition Mk.II defeated Sofu Ozawa and Naozane Goto in 9:55 when Bulldozer Brandon Smith defeated Naozane Goto by pinfall with a Backdrop Driver.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Goto had the youth and power, so teaming up with Ozawa could have added experience to the mix, but even that was not enough to give them the victory over new BCG tag champions American Demolition Mk.II</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Bunrakuken Torii defeated Hitomaro Suzuki in 22:49 by pinfall with a Spinning Forearm Smash.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Suzuki treads a fine line between management favorite and breakout star of the year, but his consistently good performances when given any opportunity help keep him afloat no matter what. Despite his improvement in terms of Performance skills here, his style just doesn't gel with that of Torii, making for an awkward bout in the main event, one the former champion carried for the most part before winning it too.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Hokkaido is one of Japan's most important regions as far as pro wrestling goes and BCG were lucky to do well enough here to gain new fans, despite not only Production Value penalties but also a main event that was held back by the bad chemistry between its two participants. The other problem here was the injury of the BCG Challengers Series champion, Nobuharu Yokokawa, who suffered a Swollen Maritime Elbow. The hit is expected to take him out of action for about a month and whether he'll be able to return in time to defend his title at next month's Survivor show is still unclear.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Sunday, W3 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Gunma Hall, Kanto</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 252</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Partnership Of Pain defeated Shiga & Miyake in 8:09 when Rokuemon Matsushita defeated Motoyuki Miyake by pinfall with an One-Handed Choke Slam.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Revisiting the clash between these two teams for the fans in Kanto, the opener was once again a decent bout, with Matsushita showing a better grasp of his power moves and Rumble skills and the outcome being exactly the same.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Yoshisada Matsuzawa defeated Naonobu Murakami in 15:45 by pinfall with a Double Arm DDT.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Murakami's win-loss record has been on shaky ground recently and Matsuzawa showed no quarter here when presented with a chance to take advantage of that. Capitalizing on the veteran's apparent sense of self-doubt (a testament to Murakami's still evolving Performance skills) Matsuzawa put in a great performance in the squared circle to outwrestle him and score a big win.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Yoshinaka Taku in 21:03 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Given how Taku has impressed with his recent performances, he was provided with an opportunity to showcase what he can do under pressure, in the main event against Funakoshi. The youngster delivered another stellar match, his work elevated by his rival and what was at stake. Funakoshi on the other hand seemed to be having a bit of an off night against the youngster, but even when not at his best, the champion is one of the best on the roster, if not Japan altogether. Through a great mix of in-ring skills and performance, Funakoshi carried the match and his opponent for over twenty minutes, before finally hitting him with the Butterfly Backbreaker for the pin.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another good show in a crucial area, earning BCG new fans thanks to a great main event and despite inferior Production Values.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="czUv3Jc.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/czUv3Jc.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div><p></p><p></p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="45613" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>In one of the most devastating natural disasters in living memory, Japan was last night devastated by an enormous tsunami. It will take a long time to properly assess the damage done, but early indications are that the country's entire infrastructure has been left in tatters. Experts have warned that the Japanese economy - one of the strongest in the world - may take years to even begin to recover.</div></blockquote><p> Everyone here at Black Canvas Grappling would like to extend our condolences to those who have lost loved ones and households in the tsunami disaster, as well as wish all the best to everyone struggling with the aftermath. Our scheduled upcoming event "The Survivor" will still take place normally despite the incident, with part of the ticket earnings set to be donated for the relief of those afflicted. Black Canvas Grappling will still tour the country, in hopes of providing entertainment in this dark time to all our fans.</p><p> </p><p> </p><div style="text-align:center;"><img alt="PQQ9EF2.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/PQQ9EF2.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /><p> <img alt="IQBl6UQ.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/IQBl6UQ.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p></div><p></p><p></p>
Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Thursday, W4 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Shimonoseki Hall, Chugoku</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 153</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Sofu Ozawa defeated Kadonomaro Kamisaka in 6:29 by pinfall with an Arm-Trap Belly To Back Suplex.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Kamisaka got a rare singles match opportunity, even if it was up against seasoned veteran Ozawa. Making the best of it to show what he can do outside of the chaos of multi man matches, Kamisaka had some good moments in the opener, before ultimately succumbing to Ozawa's finisher.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Hitomaro Suzuki defeated Noritoshi Miura in 11:48 by submission with a Suzuki Lock.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>After a series of losses to top BCG stars recently, Suzuki scored a rather quick win against Miura here, after obviously outwrestling him for most of the match. Faced with Suzuki's mat grappling skills, Miura had little to respond with and found himself tapping out to the Suzuki Lock after almost twelve minutes since the match began.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Bunrakuken Torii defeated Sharaku Okimasa in 21:21 by pinfall with a Spinning Forearm Smash.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>After a series of solid performances lately, Okimasa was given a chance to headline against former champion Bunrakuken Torii. Although not as good between the ropes as his opponent, Okimasa was still able to impose his own slow, methodical pace and keep Torii grounded for as long as he could, surviving past the twenty minute mark before ultimately falling to Torii's Spinning Forearm Smash finisher.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Not the most promising of shows, but a solid one nonetheless, especially for a region with limited popularity for BCG and right after the tsunami disaster. Judging from the feedback, Production Values are still an issue, but the show itself was good enough to bring in some new fans to the promotion.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Saturday, W4 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Hall of Nagahama, Kinki</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 300 (sold out)</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a bout that had decent wrestling but didn't have much heat, Shiga & Miyake defeated Partnership Of Pain in 6:05 when Masayuki Shiga defeated Giant Brody by pinfall with a Deadlift German Suplex.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Back to the safe formula of Shiga and Miyake against the Partnership of Pain, the opener saw the two big men dominate most of the match, with Matsushita showing improvement as far as his Performance skills go. Still, Miyake was the best of four in terms of sheer in-ring skill and that helped push the tide back long enough for Shiga to hit a heroic Deadlift German on Brody for a somewhat unexpected win.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Yoshinaka Taku defeated Yoshisada Matsuzawa in 15:31 by pinfall with a Full Nelson Bomb.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Things seem to be going well for the younger member of the Taku family, as despite losing the tag titles, he's been doing pretty well for himself testing the waters as a singles wrestler. In a weird twist of events, the absence of Ikoma and Yokokawa due to injuries has created a void the youngster was both eager and able to fill, scoring a respectable win here over Matsuzawa.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Funakoshi defeated Naonobu Murakami in 20:59 by pinfall with a Butterfly Backbreaker.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#2E8B57;">B-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>It's never a dull match when Funakoshi is in it and this one was no different. Having the veteran Murakami in there with him only helped things, with the old timer still showing he's working on his Performance skills, though age may have dulled his consistency as he looked to be a bit off.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D+</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Kinki is one of the key areas in Japan and BCG were able to sell out the venue despite the lingering effects of the tsunami disaster, gaining themselves a fair share of new fans in the area.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

<div style="text-align:center;"><p><strong>BCG The Survivor Tour</strong></p><p><strong>

Sunday, W4 of May 2016</strong></p><p><strong>

Shizuoka Sports Hall, Chubu</strong></p><p><strong>

Attendance: 300 (sold out)</strong></p></div><p></p><p></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>

In a poor match, Toshinobu Taku defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai in 6:04 by pinfall with a Gutwrench Tombstone.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D-</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Chubu fans probably expected more than a short singles match between two veterans nearing retirement for the opener, but their experience and star power was good enough to warm up the crowd without boring them or exposing their shortcomings.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Hitomaro Suzuki defeated Sofu Ozawa in 11:33 by submission with a Suzuki Lock.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Another big win for Suzuki, this time over old timer Ozawa who controlled most of the match but just couldn't wrestle his way out of the dreaded Suzuki lock. Should Suzuki manage to consistently score such big wins over major names, he will no doubt find himself among the promotion's top wrestlers very soon.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>In a decent match, Bunrakuken Torii defeated Omezo Shikitei in 21:19 by pinfall with a Spinning Forearm Smash.</strong></p><p><strong>

Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#FF8C00;">C</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>No longer wrestling multi man matches with the young lions, Omezo Shikitei got in the ring for the main event and a singles bout against Bunrakuken Torii. Given Shikitei's limited singles experience and success, this matchup was a risky one but Shikitei proved he can hang with the best when he kept Torii fighting for over twenty minutes, regardless if he ultimately lost the match.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Show Rating: </strong><strong><span style="color:#A0522D;">D</span></strong></p><p>

Comments: <em>Reaction to the show was lukewarm and even though it was still good enough to prevent fans from giving up on the product, it also wasn't exciting enough to win the promotion any new fans.</em></p>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


×
×
  • Create New...