PGHW Origins(-ish)

Scottie · August 7, 2021

PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 28.09.1997 (JSV3)

Tokyo Korakuen Hall

2,100 Fans - Super No Vacancy

62,788 Viewers (0.08)

[66]

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #2: Nobuatsu Tatsuko defeated Noriyori Sanda (2:42) with a Tatsuko Driller. [55]
After the bout, Nobuatsu Tatsuko again repeats his disappointment as his recent defeats to Kitoaji, and promises that he will end 1997 on a high by winning the Elite Tag Series. [73]
Amane Shunsen & Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) defeated Joji Ishiyama, Yoriie Ippitsusai & Yoshihisa Koguchi (7:49) with a DDT from Okazawaya to Koguchi. [28]
Elite Tag Series: The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [0] (10:44) with a Power Bomb from Naruki to Prince [53]
Elite Tag Series: Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [4] defeated Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [0] (10:07) with a Flying Forearm from Miwa to Matsubara. [63]
Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [2] defeated Dragon Squad (Mamoru Nagahama & Koji Kojima) [2] (11:51) with a Short-Arm Clothesline from Hasegawa to Kojima. [59]
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Takesi Umehara defeated Natsu Miyamae, Ninsei Tanuma & Koichi Kajiwara (11:50) with a Facebuster Suplex from Umehara to Kajiwara. [64]
Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [4] defeated Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [2] (24:32) with a Pumphandle Slam from Wright to Ichihara. [68]
Tension after the main event, as Ichihara and Kitoaji argue following their defeat - as a miscommunication led to their defeat. [64]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

"That was unprofessional of him. But I thought, apart from that, we were working well as a team, and I expect that to continue." - Koryusai Kitoaji attempts to be diplomatic after he and Ichihara were caught arguing following their main event loss. [69]

"I told everyone it wasn't going to work! This tournament needs you to be on the same page - and me and Ray [Diaz] are well and truly on the same page. Frankly, I don't think we can be stopped." - a happy Lee Wright thinks he was proven right following his main event win alongside Diaz. [61]

"We know we still have a lot of work to do - but we couldn't have asked for a better start. We know what we are capable of, and so do the fans." - After notching up a second straight Elite Tag Series win, Mito Miwa is confident that he and Mushashibo can win the whole series. [67]

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Scottie · August 8, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;"><div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #def6ff; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;”=“"><div style="text-align:center;">PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 30.09.1997

Okayama Budokan

789 Fans

[62]</div>

<div style="text-align:left;"><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #3: Koichi Kajiwara defeated Noriyori Sanda (7:45) with a Running Tackle. [26] </li><li>Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) defeated Benjiro Minatoya & Joji Ishiyama (6:21) with a Shining Wizard from Sarumara to Minatoya. [24] </li><li>Mito Miwa, Yoshimi Mushashibo & Yoriie Ippitsusai defeated Craig Prince, Johnny Stones & Koji Kojima (10:08) with a Yakuza Kick from Ippitsusai to Stones. [58] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [4] defeated <img alt="TUHZgTv.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/TUHZgTv.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [0] (11:54) with an Aurora Surfboard Vice from Kumasaka to Matsubara. [47] </li><li>Hito Ichihara, Koryusai Kitoaji & Natsu Miyamae defeated Lee Wright, Raymond Diaz & <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Hiroyasu Gakusha (19:56) with a Head Drop Suplex from Ichihara to Gakusha. [63] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Team Iron Will (Java & Nobuatsu Tatsuko) [2] defeated <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] (13:02) with a Blind Kick from Tatsuko to Naruki. [60] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [4] defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa & Mamoru Nagahama) [2] (15:21) with an Enigma Machine to Nagahama. [65]</li></ol></div>

* * *

<div style="text-align:center;">POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“We’re building nicely. There’s a number of strong teams in this field, but our experience is giving us the edge. We’re Tough, Old and Proud - and we’re going to win this tournament!” - Danger Kumasaka is confident following T.O.P. Team’s win over Team Hunger. [56]

“Agakawa is old news! They put up a fight tonight, but I knew we were going to win. I think it’s clear that we’re the team to beat.” - Eisaku Hoshino is feeling good, as the tag champions became the third team to move to four points after two matches. [61]</div></div>

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<div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #def6ff; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;”=“"><div style="text-align:center;">PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 01.10.1997

Kochi Prefectural Gymnasium

485 Fans

[59]</div>

<div style="text-align:left;"><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #4: Ninsei Tanuma defeated Noriyori Sanda (7:24) with a Straightjacket Suplex. [30] </li><li>Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) & Koichi Kajiwara defeated Amane Shunsen, Benjiro Minatoya & Yoshihisa Koguchi (9:38) with a Shining Wizard from Sarumara to Koguchi. [26] </li><li>Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) defeated Mito Miwa, Yoshimi Mushashibo & <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Hiroyasu Gakusha (13:34) with a Crossface from Kojima to Gakusha. [56] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) [4] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [0] (11:48) with a Spear Tackle from Java to Stones. [45] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [6] defeated <img alt="TUHZgTv.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/TUHZgTv.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [0] (7:36) with a Godzilla Plunge from Hoshino to Onodera. [57] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [6] defeated <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] (13:57) with a Choke Slam from Diaz to Naruki. [67] </li><li>Hito Ichihara, Koryusai Kitoaji & Natsu Miyamae defeated Danger Kumasaka, Hayate Hasegawa & Takesi Umehara (17:54) with a Braindrop from Kitoaji to Umehara. [59]</li></ol></div>

* * *

<div style="text-align:center;">POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“I’m always on the look out for new blood! We showed what the Dragon Squad is capable of tonight - and I’m confident this will translate in the Elite Tag Series!” - Dragon Agakawa is looking to expand his Dragon Squad, as the trio picked up a big win over Miwa, Mushashibo and young lion Gakusha (who has recently returned from injury. [35]

“Our loss [to Wright & Diaz] was a blip on the radar! I can’t speak for Ichihara, but I think we’re on the same page.” - Koryusai Kitoaji seems positive on his partnership with Ichihara, though perhaps not totally sure. [73]</div></div>

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<div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #def6ff; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;”=“"><div style="text-align:center;">PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 02.10.1997

Kobe World Hall

978 Fans

[63]</div>

<div style="text-align:left;"><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Koichi Kajiwara defeated Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) & Benjiro Minatoya (10:30) with a Launching Knee Strike from Kunomasu to Minatoya. [60] </li><li>Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #5: Koji Kojima defeated Noriyori Sanda (4:31) with a Crossface. [43] </li><li>Lee Wright, Raymond Diaz & Takesi Umehara defeated Amane Shunsen, Natsu Miyamae & Ninsei Tanuma (9:34) with the Wright Stuff from Wright to Shunsen. [59] </li><li>After the bout, the winning team isn’t finished - and they attack two members of the losing side, Shunsen and Miyamae. As always, “Purple Flash” Ninsei Tanuma is only out for himself - and leaves his partners to fend for themselves. [45] </li><li><img alt="TUHZgTv.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/TUHZgTv.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) & Joji Ishiyama defeated <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) & <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Hiroyasu Gakusha (9:33) with a Running Elbow from Onodera to Gakusha. [49] </li><li>After the bout, Team Hunger and The Miyata Brothers - the two non-PGHW teams in the Elite Tag Series - stare each other down, as they are soon to do battle in the tournament. [34] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [6] defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa & Mamoru Nagahama) [2] (16:28) with an Explosion from Mushashibo to Nagahama. [68] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [4] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [0] (10:17) with a Roaring Elbow from Kitoaji to Prince. [67] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [6] defeated Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) [4] (15:15) with a Body Slam from Kumasaka to Java. [63]</li></ol></div>

* * *

<div style="text-align:center;">POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“Nothing is going to plan! But there’s still time for us to recover. This is a long series, and our young bodies will hold us in good stead.” - “The Iron Man” Nobuatsu Tatsuko is still confident about his and Java’s chances in the Elite Tag Series, despite a loss to the veteran pairing of Kumasaka and Hasegawa. [70]

“I just wanted to join in on the fun.” - Takesi Umehara has a very simple justification for teaming up with Wright & Diaz to attack Miyamae & Shunsen following their six-man tag team bout. [50]

<img alt="hYoXXUV.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/hYoXXUV.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></div>

<img alt="l4lrZDM.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/l4lrZDM.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div>

Scottie · August 19, 2021

PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 03.10.1997

Fuji Municipal Gymnasium

938 Fans

[57]

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #6: Koryusai Kitoaji defeated Noriyori Sanda (5:27) with a Roaring Elbow. [49]
Takesi Umehara defeated Amane Shunsen (7:56) with a Facebuster Suplex. [26]
Craig Prince, Natsu Miyamae & Johnny Stones defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) (9:43) with a Katahajime from Prince to Nagahama. [52]
Elite Tag Series: Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [2] defeated The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] (12:24) with a Brainbuster from Matsubara to Tatsuki. [45]
Mito Miwa, Yoshimi Mushashibo & Hiroyasu Gakusha defeated Hito Ichihara & Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) (13:46) with a Pride Bomber from Miwa to Okazawaya. [60]
Elite Tag Series: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [8] defeated Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) [4] (14:51) with a Running Knee Strike from Hoshino to Java. [55]
Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [8] defeated Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [6] (20:17) with a Crucifix from Hasegawa to Diaz. [57]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“What a disgusting outcome - I can’t believe it!” - Lee Wright couldn’t believe that he and Diaz lost their first bout of the Elite Tag Series, this time to the surprise packet T.O.P. Team. [67]

“We know what it takes to compete with the best, and will come back stronger.” - It’s fair to say that Rebel Cell’s Harumi Okazawaya doesn’t have a lot of charisma just yet, but he’s confident that the young team can continue to develop in PGHW. [25]

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PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 05.10.1997 (STV)

Miyagi Prefectural Sports Center

3,900 Fans - Super No Vacancy

146,574 Viewers (0.19)

[69]

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #7: Yoriie Ippitsusai defeated Noriyori Sanda (7:47) with a Shining Wizard. [27]
Koji Kojima, Koichi Kajiwara & Hiroyasu Gakusha defeated Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) & Yoshihisa Koguchi (7:45) with a Crossface from Kojima to Koguchi. [46]
Lee Wright, Raymond Diaz & Takesi Umehara defeated Amane Shunsen, Asato Matsubaro & Tetsu Onodera (8:12) with the Wright Stuff from Wright to Onodera. [55]
Java, Ninsei Tanuma & Nobuatsu Tatsuko defeated The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) & Natsu Miyamae (10:45) with a Spear Tackle from Java to Tatsuki. [55]
Elite Tag Series: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [10] defeated T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [8] (15:32) with a Godzilla Plunge from Hoshino to Hasegawa. [67]
Elite Tag Series: Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa & Mamoru Nagahama) [4] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [0] (10:05) with a Dragon Driver from Agakawa to Stones. [52]
Elite Tag Series: Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [6] defeated Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [6] (27:42) with a Top Rope Suplex from Ichihara to Miwa. [73]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“We’re disappointed to fall short, no doubt. But we gave it our all and matched it with two of the best wrestlers in the world. Hopefully, if we meet in the finals, we will be better prepared!” - Mito Miwa and his partner went very close to splitting the points against Honor Guard in the match of the night, and think they are in good shape for a potential finals showdown. [67]

“Being back on the winners’ list feels good!” - Dragon Agakawa is feeling positive after he and Nagahama picked up the second win for Dragon Squad. [34]

“This has been a very tough tour, but I feel I am getting stronger and the wins will come.” - A humble Noriyori Sanda after his seventh straight singles loss. [30]

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PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 06.10.1997

Hachinohe City Gymnasium

949 Fans

[65]

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #8: Dragon Agakawa defeated Noriyori Sanda (7:39) with a Reverse DDT. [45]
Koichi Kajiwara, Takesi Umehara & Yoshihisa Koguchi defeated Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) & Amane Shunsen (12:09) with a Facebuster Suplex from Umehara to Sarumara. [29]
Elite Tag Series: Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [2] defeated Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [2] (9:31) with a Brainbuster from Stones to Matsubara. [40]
Elite Tag Series: Team Iron Will (Java & Nobuatsu Tatsuko) [6] defeated Dragon Squad (Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) [4] (9:02) with a Blind Kick from Tatsuko to Nagahama. [56]
Mito Miwa, Yoshimi Mushashibo & Yoriie Ippitsusai defeated Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) (15:32) with an Explosion from Mushashibo to Tanuma. [66]
Danger Kumasaka, Hayate Hasegawa & Natsu Miyamae defeated Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) & Hiroyasu Gakusha (17:36) with an Aurora Surfboard Vice from Kumasaka to Gakusha. [64]
Elite Tag Series: Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [8] defeated The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuko Miyata) [2] (8:59) with a Triangle Choke from Ichihara to Naruki. [67]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“Unacceptable! But if they think they can beat us in a proper match, then I have some bad news for them” - Codebreakers 1996’s Eisaku Hoshino was mortified by his team’s loss in six-man action, but is confident they can best Miwa & Mushashibo in the Elite Tag Series. [59]

“It is a tough loss to be sure, but it felt great to headline the card against two excellent opponents. We know this series is slipping away, but we feel confident that we can get there.” - Naruki Miyata and his brother are basically out of contention, but felt good after their main event match with Honor Guard. [44]

“Incredible! It’s been a very hard series for us so far, but I think this is the turning point.” - Canada’s Craig Prince was in a buoyant mood following his and Johnny Stones’ first win of the Elite Tag Series. They are the last team to break their duck. [35]

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Scottie · August 20, 2021

MID ELITE TAG SERIES UPDATE

We're now half way through the COURAGE Series, and the ten teams in the Elite Tag Series sure have lived up to that billing - there has been some Elite action, and some great Courage on show!

Leading the way is the PGHW Glory Tag Crown Champions Codebreakers 1996, who remain undefeated after five matches. But they still have some dynamite bouts to come - including against rival young team Team Electric (Oct. 9) who are sitting on six points but with a match in hand; second placed star-studded team Honor Guard (Oct. 10); and the giant gai-jin duo Club Dread (Oct. 14) in a frantic few days of action!

In addition to those four teams, there are at least two others that are squarely in the hunt for a spot in the Elite Tag Series Final. T.O.P. Team have surprised many this series, with Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa proving many wrong with their Tough, Old and Proud putting them in third spot on eight points. Elsewhere, Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java (Team Iron Will) sit on 6 points, but their inconsistency puts them in a precarious spot - with little room for error!

With just six shows to go before PGHW "Night of COURAGE" on Oct. 17, there's plenty of action to come! Some of the key matches to watch are:

Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) vs. Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) - Oct. 7 @ Aomori Prefectural Gymnasium
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) vs. Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) - Oct. 9 @ Nakajima Sports Centre (STV)
Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) vs. T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) - Oct. 9 @ Nakajima Sports Centre (STV)
Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) vs. Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) - Oct. 10 @ Nakajima Sports Centre (JSV3)
Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) vs. Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) - Oct. 13 @ Iwate Prefectural Gymnasium
Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) vs. Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) - Oct. 15 @ Toyama Techno Hall
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) vs. Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) - Oct. 15 @ Toyama Techno Hall

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Scottie · August 20, 2021

PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 07.10.1997

Aomori Prefectural Gymnasium

785 Fans

[61]

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #9: Eisaku Kunomasu defeated Noriyori Sanda (6:18) with Knee Strikes. [70]
Koichi Kajiwara defeated Benjiro Minatoya (4:24) with a Running Tackle. [16]
Eisaku Hoshino, Hiroyasu Gakusha & Joji Ishiyama defeated Amane Shunsen, Yoriie Ippitsusai & Yoshihisa Koguchi (8:15) with a Godzilla Plunge from Hoshino to Koguchi. [49]
Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) defeated Ninsei Tanuma & Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) (12:08) with a Guillotine Choke Slam from Nagahama to Sarumara. [49]
Danger Kumasaka, Hayate Hasegawa & Natsu Miyamae defeated The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) & Takesi Umehara (13:50) with a Flying Clothesline from Miyamae to Umehara. [50]
Elite Tag Series: Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [8] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [2] (22:21) with a Pride Bomber from Miwa to Stones. [59]
Elite Tag Series: Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitaoji) [10] defeated Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [2] (8:11) with a German Suplex Hold from Ichihara to Onodera. [56]
Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [8] defeated Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) [6] (14:11) with the Wright Stuff from Wright to Java. [60]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“He’s a tough customer, so I had to make sure he was going to stay down.” - Club Dread’s Lee Wright has a simple explanation for why he needed to his Java with The Wright Stuff three times before pinning him. [60]

“Nothing is going right for us, to be sure, but I have still have some hope.” - “The Iron Man” Nobuatsu Tatsuko still sees a glimmer of light, but Team Iron Will’s loss to Club Dread made it all but mathematically impossible for them to qualify for the Elite Tag Series final. [71]

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Scottie · August 20, 2021

PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 09.10.1997 (STV)

Nakajima Sports Center

4,050 Fans - No Vacancy

145,804 Viewers (0.19)

[68]

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #10: Craig Prince defeated Noriyori Sanda (9:19) with a Katahajime. [43]
Dragon Agakawa defeated Harumi Okazawaya (9:35) with a Dragon Driver. [36]
Team GCG (Naruki Miyata, Tatsuki Miyata & Hiroyasu Gakusha) defeated Natsu Miyamae, Rolling Johnny Stones & Yoriie Ippitsusai (12:02) with a Miyata Lock from Naruki to Ippitsusai. [51]
Java, Ninsei Tanuma & Nobuatsu Tatsuko defeated Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) & Koichi Kajiwara (5:53) with a Spear Tackle from Java to Kajiwara. [53]
Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [10] defeated Dragon Squad (Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) (9:13) with a Choke Slam from Diaz to Nagahama. [65]
After the match, Wright takes the microphone and makes clear that he and Diaz "are going all the way to the Elite Tag Series finals, baby!" [61]
Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [10] defeated Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [10] (17:48) with a Vertical Suplex Hold from Kumasaka to Ichihara. [58]
After the bout, the losing team of Ichihara & Kitoaji engage in a heated disagreement, as it looks like some of their incompatibilities from earlier in the tour seem to be re-emerging. Before it goes any further, Kitoaji walks off in a huff. [63]
Elite tag Series: Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [10] defeated Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [10] (23:59) with a Pride Bomber from Miwa to Kunomasu. [73]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“Tonight was an electric win! We've hit form at just the right time - and we've got just as good a shot as anyone.” - It's a total log jam at the top of the Elite Tag Series, with five teams in the hunt, and Team Electric's Mito Miwa is feeling good after handing the tag champions Codebreakers 1996 their first loss of the tour. [60]

“I don't have anything to say to you.” - Koryusai Kitoaji was giving his comments on his disagreement with Hito Ichihara, only for Nobuatsu Tatsuko to interrupt and goad the former champion about his loss. Kitoaji, however, wasn't having it. [67]

“I was very impressed by young Okazawaya! I look forward to meeting his partner tomorrow, but I see great things ahead for Rebel Cell.” - Veteran Dragon Agakawa was forced to bust out his Dragon Driver to finish the game Harumi Okazawaya, and faces the other half of Rebel Cell, Sotatsu Sarumara, tomorrow night. [24]

</div>

Scottie · August 21, 2021

PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 10.10.1997 (JSV3)

Nakajima Sports Center

3,950 Fans - No Vacancy

61,706 Viewers (0.08)

[68]

Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [12] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [2] by Forfeit.

Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #11: Hayate Hasegawa defeated Noriyori Sanda (7:41) with a Yakuza Kick. [42]
Dragon Squad (Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) defeated Koichi Kajiwara & Yoriie Ippitsusai (8:39) with a Crossface from Kojima to Ippitsusai. [53]
Dragon Agakawa defeated Sotatsu Sarumara (9:52) with a Dragon Driver. [40]

Agakawa takes the microphone and tells the young tag team, Rebel Cell, how impressed he's been with both of them for the last two nights - needing the Dragon Driver to put both of them away. He says there's space in his Dragon Squad, and invites them to join. The two don't need any time at all - they accept! [28]
Java, Ninsei Tanuma & Nobuatsu Tatsuko defeated Hito Ichihara, Koryusai Kitoaji & Natsu Miyamae (17:27) with a Tatsuko Driller from Tatsuko to Miyamae. [64]

After the bout, there's signs of further tension between Ichihara and Kitoaji as Ichihara leaves the ring without even acknowledging his partner. The tension, though, is interrupted by Tatsuko, who confronts Kitoaji and says that while he idolised him growing up, he finds himself more and more disappointed with him every time he steps into the ring. Much like last night's post-show interviews, Kitoaji doesn't respond and exits the ring looking dejected. [65]
Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [11] vs. Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [11] - Time Limit Draw. [71]
Elite Tag Series: Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [12] defeated The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] (11:45) with an Explosion from Mushashibo to Tatsuki. [70]

As Team Electric celebrate going to the top of the Elite Tag Series rankings, their great rivals Club Dread blindside them! Wright & Diaz lay a significant beat down on both of them - Diaz nailing both with a Choke Slam, before Wright lines Miwa up and nails him with The Wright Stuff! The crowd is livid - they are well aware that the two teams meet in just three days time in a huge Elite Tag Series match. [63]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“It just shows he doesn't have the guts. I am in the prime of my career and peak physical condition. I think it's clear that he isn't.” - "The Iron Man" Nobuatsu Tatsuko is getting more and more bolshy with his criticisms of Koryusai Kitoaji. [74]

“We don't agree. It's called playing the percentages and being smart." - Lee Wright is defensive of his and Ray Diaz's post-match attack on Team Electric, ahead of their blockbuster bout in the Elite Tag Series. [67]

“I said I was very impressed by young Okazawaya, and tonight I was also impressed by Sarumara. I am very happy to welcome both to the Dragon Squad.” - Dragon Agakawa could have been forgiven for being disappointed following his squad's fortunes in the Elite Tag Series, but he was happy to expand his group with the addition of young tag team Rebel Cell. [44]

</div>

Scottie · August 21, 2021

<table style="background-color: #d2d3d4; border: 3px solid #000000; width: 1000px;"><tbody><td style="width: 100px;"> </td><td style="width: 156.033px;"><img src="

https://i.imgur.com/iM10pGk.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></td><td style="text-align: left; vertical-align: top;"> BRITISH GRAPPLER SACKED; OUT OF PGHW ELITE TAG SERIES

English wrestler Johnny Stones (also known as Rolling Johnny Stones) is officially out of Japanese promotion PGHW, after an incident before last night's televised show in Nakajima. The 24-year old is alleged to have turned up to the show highly intoxicated and unable to work, and is reported to have been fired on the spot. It's a big blow for Stones, who has competed more than 60 times for the Osaka-based outfit and was competing in the Elite Tag Series alongside Canadian Craig Prince. It was reported that locker room veteran Danger Kumasaka was particularly incensed by the development, given he and Hayate Hasegawa were due to face Stones and Prince that night. He is said to have lobbied Saduharu Jimbo directly to show no leniency and end the Englishman's stay.

Stones and Prince's remaining bout in the Elite Tag Series (against the PGHW Glory Tag Crown Champions, Codebreakers 1996) will be forfeited, with the points being awarded to CB1996.

</tr></table>

Scottie · August 21, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;"><div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #def6ff; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;”=“"><div style="text-align:center;">PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 13.10.1997

Iwate Prefectural Gymnasium

787 Fans

[68]</div>

<div style="text-align:left;"><ul><li>Elite Tag Series: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [13] defeated Commonwealth Connexion (Craig Prince & Johnny Stones) [2] by Forfeit.</li></ul><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Ninsei Tanuma defeated Koichi Kajiwara (9:50) with a Snapmare. [38] </li><li>Craig Prince defeated Takesi Umehara (11:43) with a Katahajime. [40] </li><li>Dragon Squad (Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai & Yoshihisa Koguchi (9:36) with a Guillotine Choke from Nagahama to Koguchi. [50] </li><li>Danger Kumasaka, Hayate Hasegawa & Noriyori Sanda defeated <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Team GCG (Naruki Miyata, Tatsuki Miyata & Hiroyasu Gakusha) (14:19) with a Piledriver from Kumasaka to Gakusha. [50] </li><li>Hito Ichihara, Koryusai Kitoaji & Natsu Miyamae defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) (14:23) with a German Suplex Hold from Ichihara to Okazawaya. [53] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) [8] defeated <img alt="TUHZgTv.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/TUHZgTv.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) (11:36) with a Spear Tackle from Java to Onodera. [57] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [13] defeated Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [12] (22:42) with The Wright Stuff from Wright to Miwa. [75] </li></ol></div>

* * *

<div style="text-align:center;">POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“It's totally unfair, but that is what we expect from Dread's disciples. We still have a chance of qualifying, and hopefully we get the chance to beat them in the finals.” - Yoshimi Mushashibo was diplomatic following Team Electric's loss to Club Dread, but there was clearly anger as he and his partner Miwa were still reeling from their attack in Nakajima. [57]

“It was a setback, but I'm focused on the future.” - “The Shooter” Craig Prince didn't give much away about losing his partner Johnny Stones, projecting confidence following a singles win over the tricky Umehara. [71]

<img alt="iYVlQRd.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/iYVlQRd.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

<img alt="w6ug1iW.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/w6ug1iW.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></div>

<img alt="l4lrZDM.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/l4lrZDM.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div>

Scottie · August 21, 2021

PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 14.10.1997

Fukushima City Gymnasium

775 Fans

[56]

Takesi Umehara & Yoshihisa Koguchi defeated Amane Shunsen & Joji Ishiyama (6:01) with a Facebuster Suplex from Umehara to Ishiyama. [19]
Ninsei Tanuma defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai (10:52) with a Straightjacket Suplex. [34]
Noriyori Sanda Trial Match #12: Natsu Miyamae defeated Noriyori Sanda (9:22) with a Spoiler. [39]
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Hiroyasu Gakusha defeated Dragon Squad (Harumi Okazawaya, Mamoru Nagahama & Sotatsu Sarumara) (12:32) with a Godzilla Plunge from Hoshino to Sarumara. [52]
Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) & Craig Prince defeated Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) & Koichi Kajiwara (9:48) with a Katahajime from Prince to Matsubara. [52]
Elite Tag Series: T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) [14] defeated The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] (10:49) with a Yakuza Kick from Hasegawa to Naruki. [49]
Elite Tag Series: Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [12] defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa & Koji Kojima) [4] (15:18) with a Braindrop from Kitoaji to Kojima. [52]
Elite Tag Series: Team Iron Will (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Java) [10] defeated Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) [12] (18:16) with a Tatsuko Driller from Tatsuko to Mushashibo. [59]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“It's sort of our of our hands. We know what was have to do tomorrow night to make the finals, but it's not a good feeling to be relying on others.” - Although delivering this interview without his partner, Hito Ichihara was optimistic that he and Kitoaji could make the finals of the Elite Tag Series. But he was also clearly aware that his team's success depended on the results of others. [69]

“It feels great to have one foot in the door - now we just watch!” - Veterans Danger Kumasaka and Hayate Hasegawa have been the surprise packets of this Elite Tag Series, and Kumasaka was clearly content that they had done all they could to get themselves into the finals. [50]

</div>

Scottie · August 24, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;"><div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #def6ff; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;”=“"><div style="text-align:center;">PGHW "COURAGE" Series, 15.10.1997

Toyama Techno Hall

947 Fans

[64]</div>

<div style="text-align:left;"><ul><li>Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda defeated <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Hiroyasu Gakusha & Yoshihisa Koguchi (8:01) with a Spoiler from Miyamae to Koguchi. [43] </li><li>Nobuatsu Tatsuko defeated Yoshimi Mushashibo (20:32) with a Tatsuko Driller. [68] </li><li>As has become routine this tour, Tatsuko took the microphone following the bout and again told of his disappointment in Kitoaji. He says that, unless Kitoaji makes the finals of the Elite Tag Series, Tatsuko wants him 1 vs. 1 at "Night of COURAGE"! [64] </li><li>Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) defeated Amane Shunsen, Koichi Kajiwara & Yoriie Ippitsusai (8:01) with an Armbreaker from Okazawaya to Kajiwara. [42] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Dragon Squad (Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) [6] defeated <img alt="QHfczkJ.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/QHfczkJ.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) [2] (11:15) with a Crossface from Kojima to Tatsuki. [52] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) [14] vs. Honor Guard (Hito Ichihara & Koryusai Kitoaji) [13] (30:00) - Time Limit Draw. [60] </li><li>Elite Tag Series: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) [15] defeated <img alt="TUHZgTv.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/TUHZgTv.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Team Hunger (Asato Matsubara & Tetsu Onodera) [2] (7:31) with a Choke Slam from Diaz to Onodera. [65] </li><li>After the bout, Club Dread celebrate their victory - only for their surprise opponents in the Elite Tag Series final, T.O.P. Team's Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa, to emerge for a face-off. [56]</li></ul></div>

* * *

<div style="text-align:center;">POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“He dare continue to disrespect me? Tonight was disappointing, but I will relish the opportunity to vanquish Tatsuko. Then I will deal with my issues with Ichihara.” - A dejected Koryusai Kitoaji has finally had enough of Nobuatsu Tatsuko - but clearly has an eye on his old rival, Ichihara. [53]

<img alt="xf06V9t.png" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/xf06V9t.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></div></div>

<img alt="l4lrZDM.jpg" data-src="https://i.imgur.com/l4lrZDM.jpg" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" />

So there we have it - Club Dread's Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz will face the surprise veteran pairing of Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa in the final (who qualified over the tag champions, Codebreakers 1996, on the basis of most matches won). I find these round robins sometimes tough to book - in particular to keep interesting stories going on the side - so I will be happy for this tour to be over shortly!</div>

Scottie · August 29, 2021

17 October 1997 - Osaka, Japan

With commentary by Keiji Takeda & Sosa Morri

_______________________________________________

3 VS. 3 MATCH

Hito Ichihara & The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) vs. Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama)

It’s a low-key end to the tour for the Glory Crown Champion Ichihara, after he and Koryusai Kitoaji fell short in the Elite Tag Series. Still, he teams up here with Naruki and Tatsuki in their final match with PGHW for now, taking on the Dragon Squad.

Agakawa’s men had mixed success as the only trio in the Elite Tag Series, finishing seventh with six points. But they put on a good showing here against their veteran opponents, with Agakawa to let young Kojima and Nagahama test their mettle against the reigning Glory Crown Champion. Kojima in particular looked sharp and impressed.

After a competitive bout which involved a number of near falls, it was Ichihara whose class shone through as he fought out of a side headlock from Nagahama and ultimately landed a picture perfect High Angle German Suplex - holding on for the pin, to send The Miyata Brothers off (for now) in style.

Hito Ichihara & The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) (19:52) with a German Suplex Hold from Ichihara to Nagahama. [65]

_______________________________________________

TAG TEAM MATCH

Craig Prince & Takesi Umehara vs. Hiroyasu Gakusha & Yoriie Ippitsusai

After a long opener, the next match was higher tempo but didn’t exactly capture the crowd’s imagination. Prince & Umehara were the more experienced pairing and clear favourites here, combining well against their young opponents to secure the win - Prince catching GCG youngster Hiroyasu Gakusha in a Katahajime to draw a verbal submission. A clinical performance.

Craig Prince & Takesi Umehara defeated Hiroyasu Gakusha & Yoriie Ippitsusai (11:41) with a Katahajime from Prince to Gakusha. [32]

_______________________________________________

SINGLES MATCH

Java vs. Asato Matsubara

Asato Matsubara had a rough time during the Elite Tag Series, as he and long-time partner Tetsu Matsubara managed just one win on their visit from BBW. Here, he faced the terrifying prospect of facing Java, who was on the receiving end of surprising pinfall losses of his own during the Elite Tag Series. There was no such issue here, though - Java dominating Matsubara and then finishing him with a Power Bomb for the win.

Java defeated Asato Matsubara (5:32) with a Power Bomb. [35]

_______________________________________________

TAG TEAM MATCH

Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) vs. The New Rebellion (Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda)

After a rough series of trial matches, the exciting youngster Noriyori Sanda ended his tour in a good position - forming a tag team with one of his opponents, Natsu Miyamae, as The New Rebellion (with Miyamae’s former partner, Ken Shimedzu, now with BHOTWG).

They faced off against the talented young high flyers, Rebel Cell, whose fortunes took a real boost this tour as they were drafted into the Dragon Squad. They were joined at ringside by their leader, Dragon Agakawa, who was there to cheer them on.

In the fastest pace match of the night, the crowd was entertained by some good quality juniors action, with Miyamae in particular showing renewed fire after months in the wilderness without a regular partner. But The New Rebellion couldn’t pick up the win, as Sarumara nailed Sanda with the Dragon Driver - much to the excitement of Agakawa at ringside - to pick up the pinfall win.

Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) defeated The New Rebellion (Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda) (11:07) with a Dragon Driver from Sarumara to Sanda. [46]

_______________________________________________

Glory Tag Crown

Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) vs. Team Electric (“The Pride Warrior” Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo)

The next bout was our only title match of the evening, pitting against one another two teams who were so close to winning their way into the Elite Tag Series final. The Glory Tag Crown Champions, Codebreakers 1996, missed out on a count back - losing just one of their nine bouts. That loss was to Miwa & Mushashibo, who were rewarded for that win (as is custom) with their first ever title shot here in Osaka.

While there aren’t true faces and heels in PGHW, the crowd was clearly behind the exciting pairing of Team Electric who literally lit up the tag series with some exceptional bouts. Hoshino & Kunomasu were making their second defence here, having first won the titles in July, and seemed the relish their role as the bad boys of PGHW (Hoshino moreso - with Kunomasu being his usual emotionless self).

For more than 24 minutes, the bout ebbed and flowed, with the best action involving Hoshino and Mushashibo - surely two future greats of the sport - who showed technical skill beyond their years. Mushashibo in particular carried much of the load for his team, with Miwa still struggling with a back injury sustained during the last tour.

In an excellent bout, the end came with Miwa isolated against CB1996 who combined to hit “The Pride Warrior” with an Enigma Machine. Hoshino then made doubly sure of the pin - landing his Godzilla Plunge - for a pinfall win as Mushashibo recovered outside of the ring following an earlier scuffle.

Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) © defeated Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) (24:16) with a Godzilla Plunge from Hoshino to Miwa (2nd defence). [76]

_______________________________________________

Codebreakers 1996 celebrated their second win after the bout, posing for the fans as the evening’s first lot of streamers came down. But the crowd’s attention was soon diverted - as tYodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai, emerged from the backstage area - their first appearance as a team since they were forced to relinquish the titles due to Inukai’s injury in July!

Codebreakers 1996 could scarcely believe it, as the former Glory Tag Crown in front of the backstage curtain and motioned for the titles. Initially shocked, CB1996 soon looked determined - clearly hoping to prove themselves worthy as the undisputed Glory Tag Crown holders. [57]

_______________________________________________

SINGLES MATCH

Koryusai Kitoaji vs. “The Iron Man” Nobuatsu Tatsuko

After months of being goaded (and in some cases attacked) by the Historical Japan champion, Koryusai Kitoaji finally granted “The Iron Man’s” wish for a 1 vs. 1 match here in Osaka. Kitoaji had clear had enough of Tatsuko’s constant taunting, but also had an eye on proving himself ready for another shot at the Glory Crown with a win over a key young player in PGHW.

Entering his prime, Tatsuko has become more and more confident as 1997 has progressed - verging on what some would say is arrogance. While Kitoaji came out looking reserved in his usual plain ring attire, Tatsuko emerged with a pair of sunglasses and a robe looking every bit the emerging star that he is.

The match proceeded with “The Iron Man” Tatsuko looking particularly strong early, seeming to be a step ahead of his older opponent and looking both faster and stronger. He continued to disrespect Kitoaji, and on one occasion straight out slapped the former Glory Crown champion in the corner much to the distaste of the crowd. Kitoaji, of course, would not be on the end of a straight beating from Tatsuko, and slowly worked his way back into the match with incredible heart and persistence. As Tatsuko went for a running knee in the corner, Kitoaji took his chance to move out of the way and rain down strikes on Tatsuko in the corner.

Kitoaji continued to assert himself, leaving Tatsuko no choice but to execute some less than honourable manoeuvres - in some cases exiting the ring for a breather, and also targeting Kitoaji’s right knee. That saw Tatsuko go close to claiming a huge victory on a couple of occasions - with Kitoaji reaching deep within himself to kick out before Tatsuko’s pinfall attempts could be completed.

While Tatsuko managed to land his patented Blind Kick on Kitoaji, try as he might, he couldn’t follow up with the Tatsuko Driller as the weary Kitoaji somehow fought has way out. In contrast, as the end of the bout approached, the veteran managed to land a Roaring Elbow - but, unbelievably, Tatsuko kicked out! Kitoaji wasn’t deterred, though, as he immediately set about ending the bout - overcoming his weakened knee to finally put Tatsuko away with the Braindrop after over half an hour of gruelling action.

Koryusai Kitoaji defeated Nobuatsu Tatsuko (32:18) with a Braindrop [70]

_______________________________________________

ELITE TAG SERIES - FINAL

Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) vs. T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa)

The main event was the culmination of the inaugural Elite Tag Series. While few were surprised by the presence of Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz, who were seeking to follow in the footsteps of their leader Dread’s triumph in the Elite Series earlier this year, the performance of T.O.P. Team was a surprise given the strength of the field.

In their only other meeting this tournament, T.O.P. Team prevailed in a surprise win, and Club Dread were clearly determined to put that right. Although younger, the gai-jin pair clearly outsized Kumasaka and particularly Hasegawa and have been a dominant force on PGHW’s tag team landscape since the promotion’s inception.

Wright & Diaz exerted their size advantage early, with Diaz in particular apparently unmoved by the crisp striking of Hasegawa. They spent the early stages isolating Hasegawa in their corner of the ring, with frequent tags allowing them to wear the veteran down. The grizzled veteran Kumasaka grew increasingly impatient in the corner, and things threatened to boil over as he entered the ring to remonstrate with Club Dread as they again sought to double-team Hasegawa in the corner.

Hasegawa finally saw and took an opening, as he managed to duck under a clothesline and drop kick Wright to the mat. While Wright sought to stop him tagging out, Hasegawa managed to leap to his corner and bring Kumasaka into the match - with Kumasaka bringing some fire.

Kumasaka showed his incredible strength as he landed some vertical suplexes on Wright, and then ducked under an attempted interference from Diaz to hit the giant American with a german suplex. As the crowd became a bigger factor in the bout, Kumasaka continued to control the bout with his solid grappling skills - going close to getting a three count on Wright as he landed a double arm DDT.

But Club Dread showed why they are one of the strongest tag teams in the world, fighting their way back into the match as Wright avoided another vertical suplex attempt and swept Kumasaka’s legs from under him. He then brought in the comparatively fresh Diaz, who set above reclaiming control of the bout with his sheer power.

As the teams continued to exchange control of the match, the end came with Wright and Hasegawa in the ring. As Hasegawa looked to end Wright with a Shining Wizard, the American managed to avoid Hasegawa’s attack and knock him to the mat with a stiff lariat. Wright then sized Hasegawa up before collecting him with his signature running dropkick, the Wright Stuff, to claim the Elite Tag Series for Club Dread.

Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) defeated T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) (20:19) with the Wright Stuff from Wright to Hasegawa. [69]

_______________________________________________

In what seemed like a case of groundhog day, Sadaharu Jimbo made a rare appearance to present the inaugural Elite Tag Series trophies to Wright & Diaz - just as he did following Dread’s win earlier this year. In the ultimate sign of disrespect, Lee Wright barely let Jimbo speak - saying that he and Diaz confirmed that they are the best team in Japan, and looked forward to reclaiming the Glory Tag Crown next. Without acknowledging Jimbo, the pair left the ring with their trophies as the show came to an end. [66]</div>

PGHW “Night of COURAGE", 17.10.1997 (JSV2)

Osaka-jō Hall

14,071 Fans - No Vacancy

421,172 Viewers (0.56)

[68]

Hito Ichihara & The Miyata Brothers (Naruki Miyata & Tatsuki Miyata) defeated Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) (19:52) with a German Suplex Hold from Ichihara to Nagahama. [65]
Craig Prince & Takesi Umehara defeated Hiroyasu Gakusha & Yoriie Ippitsusai (11:41) with a Katahajime from Prince to Gakusha. [32]
Java defeated Asato Matsubara (5:32) with a Power Bomb. [35]
Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) defeated The New Rebellion (Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda) (11:07) with a Dragon Driver from Sarumara to Sanda. [46]
PGHW Glory Tag Crown: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) © defeated Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) (24:16) with a Godzilla Plunge from Hoshino to Miwa (2nd defence). [76]
Koryusai Kitoaji defeated Nobuatsu Tatsuko (32:18) with a Kitoaji Braindrop [70]
Elite Tag Series - Final: Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) defeated T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa) (20:19) with the Wright Stuff from Wright to Hasegawa. [69]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“It feels fantastic to be back. The last few months have been very hard, and we were disappointed to have to relinquish the Tag Crown and watch as other teams competed in the Elite Tag Series. But I feel stronger and better than ever, and I know that Shuji feels the same!” - Yodo Nakane was riding high, as he and Shuji Inukai returned from injury and laid down the gauntlet to the current Glory Tag Crown holders, Codebreakers 1996. [50]

“I have been very impressed by his tenacity and bravery this tour, and there’s no man I would be paired with in PGHW!” - While the New Rebellion were unsuccessful in their bout against Rebel Cell, Natsu Miyamae only had good things to say about his new tag partner Noriyori Sanda. [32]

“I’m the first person to kick out of the Roaring Elbow! My time will come!” - “The Iron Man” Nobuatsu Tatsuko was fired up following his loss to Kitoaji, but still managed to find a positive. [80]

</div>

Historian · August 29, 2021

Great tournament finale.

Dalton · August 29, 2021

I love me some Club Dread~!

Scottie · September 6, 2021

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PRESS CONFERENCE - HIGHLIGHTS

PGHW "WRESTLING" Series

13.11.1997 from Osaka, Japan

Japanese wrestling legend Saduharu Jimbo hosted the pre-tour press conference for PGHW's marquee end of year tour, the "WRESTLING" Series, from Osaka. Here are the highlights!

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AN IMMORTAL REMATCH The big news was confirmation of the enormous re-match of last year's "Night of WRESTLING" main event, as Hito Ichihara will defend the Glory Crown against Koryusai Kitoaji!

It's the culmination of one of Japanese wrestling's biggest rivalries, with Kitoaji finally earning a shot at reclaiming the Glory Crown from Ichihara nearly a year to the day since he lost to Ichihara at Korakuen Hall last year. Kitoaji has been so close to earning another shot throughout the year - including in his heated rivalry with Dread - before sealing his status as number one contender at "Night of COURAGE" with his win over "The Iron Man" Nobuatsu Tatsuko.

The two PGHW originals looked to put their differences aside during last month's Elite Tag Series, but fell short of claiming the inaugural tag team competition. As the "Honor Guard", their animosity threatened to boil over - now, at "Night of WRESTLING", it comes to a head!

~

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NEW FACTION ALERT Speaking of "The Iron Man", Nobuatsu Tatsuko was bitterly disappointed as he fell short again against one of the PGHW originals - this time Koryusai Kitoaji.

Here, Tatsuko had two big announcements: first, he'd formed a faction of his own - Forged by Fire - teaming his iron will along with the unhinged power of PGHW's latest tag team, the Pacific Predators, Java & the returning Amiri Ngala!

Tatsuko's second announcement was even bigger. With Tatsuko looking to enter his fourth calendar year as Historical Japan Champion (having claimed it from Mito Miwa in May 1995), Tatsuko had permission to announce the inaugural Historical Japan Cup - a sixteen-man tournament, which would culminate on a televised show from the Fukuoka International Center on Nov. 25, with the winner earning a shot at the Historical Japan Title at "Night of WRESTLING" on Dec. 6.

Tatsuko said he and the rest of Forged by Fire would be watching the tournament carefully, with Tatsuko making clear he is only willing to defend his title against those who prove themselves worthy - and what better way, then in the Historical Japan Cup?

~

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CLUB DREAD EXPANSION Japanese fans have watched in horror this year as gai-jin trio Club Dread have taken PGHW by storm - claiming the inaugural Elite Series and Elite Tag Series gongs.

But with leader Dread’s whereabouts unknown, de facto leader Lee Wright announced that the trio had expanded - with “The Shooter” Craig Prince and the grizzled Takesi Umehara both joining the club.

The pair started teaming together intermittently during the “COURAGE” Series, which culminated with a win over Hiroyasu Gakusha & Yoriie Ippitsusai at “Night of COURAGE”. They’ll need to quickly adjust to Club Dread’s less than honourable ways - although that will come easily to Umehara, who is not a PGHW original and has had little qualms in taking every advantage he can during his time in Osaka.

The announcement of Umehara is particularly surprising, with Umehara becoming the first Japanese wrestler to join Dread’s burgeoning army. While Wright gave little away about Dread’s plans going forward, he assured journalists that he had managed to get in touch with the mysterious giant who approved “wholeheartedly” of Club Dread’s latest acquisitions.

~

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Finally, Jimbo's expansion of the gai-jin segment of the roster continued with the announcement of three new wrestlers for the “WRESTLING” Series:

<ul><li>"Blackjack" Robbins is a 33-year old brawler from Georgia, who may be known to fans for his brief run in the Texas Wrestling League. Although limited in the ring, he's physically imposing and experienced enough to be a solid hand on tour shows. </li><li>Similarly, Rick Sanders is a steady hand and solid addition to the roster. The 28-year old has competed for North American promotions NYCW and DAVE, having significant success as one half of "The Ace Express" alongside Johnny Martin.</li></ul>

The trio are set to debut during the early stages of the upcoming tour.</div></div>

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<div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #9cd2e6; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;"="">PGHW "Night of WRESTLING", 05.12.1997 (JSV2)

Osaka-jō Hall

Card subject to change

<div align="left"><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Club Dread (Lee Wright & Raymond Diaz) vs. Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo). </li><li>Historical Japan Title: Nobuatsu Tatsuko © vs. TBD </li><li>Glory Tag Crown: Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) © vs. Shuji Inukai & Yodo Nakane. </li><li>Glory Crown: Hito Ichihara © vs. Koryusai Kitoaji.</li></ol></div></div>

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Scottie · September 6, 2021

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Historian" data-cite="Historian" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52552" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Great tournament finale.</div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Dalton" data-cite="Dalton" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52552" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I love me some Club Dread~!</div></blockquote> Thank you both! I'm planning to change up the presentation of the tours going forward - mainly by not posting all of the tour shows and focusing on stories leading up to televised events. Club Dread has been the most fun to book, and I'm slowly trying to expand the roster of factions as that clearly works best for the high volume of tour shows I'm booking. I don't want to bring them all in at once - but slowly but surely alliances will need to be formed!

Scottie · September 9, 2021

PGHW: Card released for "WRESTLING" Series opener

TOKYO, Japan - PGHW originals Hito Ichihara and Koryusai Kitoaji may be on a collision course for a historical title rematch at “Night of WRESTLING” on Dec. 6, but they’ll separately do battle against a new look Club Dread in the top matches at PGHW’s “WRESTLING” Series show on Nov. 15.

Kitoaji has spent much of his year battling members of the notorious faction, and in the main event will team up with Team Electric, Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo, against the team of Lee Wright, Raymond Diaz & Craig Prince.

Fresh off their Elite Tag Series win, Wright & Diaz have been in a bitter war with Team Electric for months, constantly getting the better of the exciting Japanese pairing but through less than honourable means. They team up here with one of their newest acquisitions, the former Historical Japan title contender Prince, in what is sure to be an electrifying main event.

Elsewhere, Ichihara has his hands full in a singles bout with the other new acquisition for Club Dread, facing off against the grizzled Takesi Umehara. Ichihara is closing in on a year as champion, but will no doubt meet a highly determined Umehara who will be keen to prove himself to his new faction in what is arguably the biggest match of his career.

In other news, “The Iron Man” Nobuatsu Tatsuko will look to bounce back from his disappointing defeat at “Night of COURAGE”, teaming up with new stable mates, the Pacific Predators, Java & Amiri Ngala. The newly coined Forged by Fire stable will face the Elite Tag Series runners up Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa, who are teaming with impressive young lion Noriyori Sanda.

Tatsuko will no doubt have one eye on the evening’s earlier bouts, as the Historical Japan Cup kicks off with singles bouts between Blackjack Robbins and Hirokumi Saito, and Hiroyasu Gakusha and Ninsei Tanuma. The winner of the cup will be crowned on Nov.25 from the Fukuoaka International Center and earn a title shot against Tatsuko at “Night of WRESTLING”.

The full brackets for that tournament have also been released, and it seems that the rumours of some big names from other Japanese organisations sadly didn’t come to fruition.

The road to “Night of WRESTLING” kicks off on Nov. 15 from Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall, and will be broadcast on Shogun TV.

PGHW "WRESTLING" Series, 15.11.1997 (STV)

Tokyo Korakuen Hall

Historical Japan Cup: Blackjack Robbins vs. Hirokumi Saito.
Historical Japan Cup: Hiroyasu Gakusha vs. Ninsei Tanuma.
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Fukusaburu Inao vs. Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama).
Forged by Fire (Nobuatsu Tatsuko, Amiri Ngala & Java) vs. Danger Kumasaka, Hayate Hasegawa & Noriyori Sanda.
Hito Ichihara vs. Takesi Umehara.
Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai vs. Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara).
Club Dread (Lee Wright, Raymond Diaz & Craig Prince) vs. Koryusai Kitoaji & Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo).

</div>

Scottie · September 10, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;"><div style="padding: 15px; border: 3px solid #000000; margin:10px;background: #bbe3f2; max-width:60%;box-shadow: 0 1px 2px " ;"=""><div style="text-align:center;">PGHW "WRESTLING" Series, 15.11.1997 (STV)

Tokyo Korakuen Hall

2,100 Fans - Super No Vacancy

145,236 Viewers (0.19)

[66]

<div style="text-align:left;"><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Historical Japan Cup: Ninsei Tanuma defeated Hiroyasu Gakusha (9:30) with a Facebuster Suplex. [38] </li><li>Historical Japan Cup: Blackjack Robbins defeated Hirokumi Saito (6:48) with a Leaping Side Suplex. [20] </li><li>Forged by Fire (Nobuatsu Tatsuko, Amiri Ngala & Java) defeated Danger Kumasaka, Hayate Hasegawa & Noriyori Sanda (13:46) with a Spear Tackle from Java to Sanda. [56] </li><li>Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Koji Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama) defeated Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Fukusaburu Inao (16:12) with a Double Underhook Suplex from Nagahama to Inao. [61] </li><li>Hito Ichihara defeated Takesi Umehara (15:39) with a German Suplex Hold. [53] </li><li>Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai defeated Rebel Cell (Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) (11:24) with a Lariat from Inukai to Okazawaya. [59] </li><li>Koryusai Kitoaji & Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo) defeated Club Dread (Lee Wright, Raymond Diaz & Craig Prince) (22:16) with a Roaring Elbow from Kitoaji to Prince. [71] </li></ol></div>

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

“This is the biggest tour of my year, and it was a perfect way to start it! I look forward to testing myself against Ichihara throughout the tour” - Nearly a year since losing his title Koryusai Kitoaji looks more determined than ever to reclaim the Glory Crown. He got the pinfall in the main event over Craig Prince. [76]

“Tonight was not a successful night for us, but this is a long tour and there’s plenty of time for us to hit our stride! The rest of the locker room needs to watch out!” - It was a bad night for the new look Club Dread, as all four members suffered defeat, but its only Japanese member, Takesi Umehara, was confident that they could bounce back. [47]

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Historian · October 27, 2021

I really hope this makes a comeback!

The Dynamite Sid · October 27, 2021

Yeah same, absolutely. One of the best puro diaries

Scottie · December 30, 2021

PGHW “WRESTLING” Series  - Tour Highlights - Part One

After kicking off with a televised event at Korakuen Hall, PGHW’s “WRESTLING” Series continued to kick into gear, as more matches were set for the young Japanese promotion's marquee event, PGHW "Night of WRESTLING", on Dec. 5.

After both experiencing victory on the tour's first televised card, PGHW Glory Crown Champion Hito Ichihara and Koryusai Kitoaji's rivalry continued to dominate cards that spanned the likes of Osaka and Aichi.

In contrast to their respective bouts on the opening show, the pair found themselves in the same matches on a number of occasions. In one of those occasions (the tour's second night), they tried to put their differences aside; teaming up successfully with the recently recovered Shuji Inukai to face off against Club Dread. But on other nights they found themselves on opposing teams: in Osaka, Kitoaji got one up on the champion in multi-man action; while the following night, in Ibaraki, Ichihara got his win back.

However, despite facing off three times in the first half of the tour, the pair rarely got the chance to meet in the ring - preferring to watch on as the other tested themselves against some of the best wrestlers in Japan. But with another multi-man match set for the televised show on Nov. 25, the question will be whether they can continue to stay separate.

Elsewhere, Club Dread’s fortunes continued to tumble. Without their leader Dread, disaster struck on the second night of the tour in Tokyo, as de facto leader Lee Wright suffered a liver injury - which will keep him out of the tour! It left the big youngster Raymond Diaz left to carry the torch alongside new additions Craig Prince and Takesi Umehara - with mixed results, as the lustre had clearly come off the once feared club throughout the tour.

While his faction's results as a team were mixed, Umehara found more success in singles action as he fought his way through to the Historical Japan Cup final in Fukuoka. The grizzled Umehara fought his way past the likes of Yoriie Ippitsusai and the Dragon Squad's Mamoru Nagahama, before finally earning his second shot at the Historical Japan Title by beating fellow spoilsport Ninsei Tanuma. He will face off in the final against another former Historical Japan Title contender, as the exciting masked youngster Koji Kojima carried the torch for his Dragon Squad - beating the likes of Rick Sanders, Fukusaburu Inao and, finally, the veteran and Elite Tag Series finalist Hayate Hasegawa. It was one of the biggest singles wins of Kojima's career, and he will look to add to it on Nov. 25.

The winner of that bout will of course take on Nobuatsu Tatsuko for the title at "Night of WRESTLING" on Dec. 6. While "The Iron Man" no doubt had one eye on the tournament, he and his new faction Forged in Fire looked to stamp their mark on PGHW throughout the early nights of the tour. They weren't always successful, but found themselves headlining a couple of cards - including multi-man wins over teams including the likes of Ichihara, Kitoaji, Mito Miwa and Yoshimi Mushashibo.

Finally, with a Glory Tag Crown bout set for "Night of WRESTLING", the rivalry between champions Codebreakers 1996 and Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai continued to heat up during the tour. Nakane & Inukai have been proclaiming Codebreakers 1996 "false champions", reminding the hotshot young team that they only became champions after Nakane & Inukai were forced to relinquish their titles through injury. They met just once in the early stages of the tour: Nakane & Inukai teaming up with Shawn Gonzalez to beat Codebreakers 1996 and young Koichi Kajiwara in Ibaraki.

</div>

PGHW "WRESTLING" Series, 25.11.1997 (STV)

Fukuoka International Center

Card Subject To Change

Mamoru Nagahama vs. Yoriie Ippitsusai.
Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa vs. Club Dread (Craig Prince & Raymond Diaz).
Blackjack Robbins & Rick Sanders vs. Fukusaburu Inao & Go Matsunaga.
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Ninsei Tanuma vs. The New Rebellion (Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda) & Shawn Gonzalez.
Forged in Fire (Nobuatsu Tatsuko, Amiri Ngala & Java) vs. Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara).
Historical Japan Cup - Final: Koji Kojima vs. Takesi Umehara.
Koryusai Kitoaji, Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai vs. Hito Ichihara, Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo.

</div>

Scottie · January 2, 2022

PGHW "WRESTLING" Series, 25.11.1997 (STV)

Fukuoka International Center

11,110 Fans

138,731 Viewers (0.18)

[59]

Mamoru Nagahama defeated Yoriie Ippitsusai (7:50) with a Guillotine Choke. [30]
Blackjack Robbins & Rick Sanders defeated Fukusaburu Inao & Go Matsunaga (9:58) with a Leaping Side Suplex from Robbins to Inao. [40]
Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Harumi Okazawaya & Sotatsu Sarumara) defeated Forged in Fire (Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Amiri Ngala) & Hiroyasu Gakusha (10:13) with a Dragon Driver from Agakawa to Gakusha. [50]
Codebreakers 1996 (Eisaku Hoshino & Eisaku Kunomasu) & Ninsei Tanuma defeated The New Rebellion (Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda) & Shawn Gonzalez (10:49) with a Legdrop from Tanuma to Sanda. [55]
Historical Japan Cup - Final: Koji Kojima defeated Takesi Umehara (12:56) with a Crossface. [49]
Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa defeated Club Dread (Craig Prince & Raymond Diaz) (16:48) with a Diving Axe Handle from Kumasaka to Prince. [58]
Koryusai Kitoaji, Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai defeated Hito Ichihara, Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo (22:28) with a Brainbuster from Nakane to Mushashibo. [62]

* * *

POST-SHOW INTERVIEWS:

"Tonight didn't go to plan - but mark my words were are going to find a way to turn this tour around!" - Club Dread's Raymond Diaz has found himself thrust into a position of leadership following injuries and absences, but even he seemed at a loss for ideas after a disappointing night in Fukuoka. Since winning the Elite Tag Series with the now injured Lee Wright, Diaz has struggled to keep his momentum going. [41]

"That was just plain bad sportsmanship - I don't have any time for him!" - Dragon Squad leader Dragon Agakawa was disgusted by the post-match attack on Koji Kojima at the hands of the Historical Japan champion Nobuatsu Tatsuko. But still - he'll be mighty impressed after his squad won three bouts in Fukuoka. [41]

"I am less than two weeks away from re-claiming what is rightfully mine! Ichihara, Miwa & Mushashibo put up a fight tonight, but we showed what we were capable of" - Koryusai Kitoaji doesn't have to wait long until he meets Hito Ichihara again for the title, and he no doubt took a mental edge in Fukuoka as he teamed with fellow number one contenders Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai in a victorious main event display. [70]

</div>

Historian · January 2, 2022

Welcome back!

The Dynamite Sid · January 2, 2022

hell yes, glad to see this revived

Scottie · January 4, 2022

PGHW “WRESTLING” Series  - Tour Highlights - Part Two

After again meeting on opposite sides of the ring at "Road to Night of WRESTLING", Hito Ichihara and Koryusai Kitoaji continued to put the finishing touches on their preparation in the back end of the "WRESTLING" Series.

Despite a disappointing televised loss in Fukuoka, the Glory Crown holder Ichihara had a successful final swing for the tour - finally hitting his stride, including in multi-man action against the challenger Kitoaji. He picked up the pinfall in the headliner in Hiroshima on Nov. 27 (teaming with Kumasaka & Hasegawa to beat the Club Dread "B Team"), while also ending up on the winning side of two matches against Kitoaji - including on the penultimate night of the tour in Toyama.

On that occasion, Ichihara teamed with an unlikely pairing - Forged in Fire's Nobuatsu Tatsuko & Amiri Ngala - to conquer Kitoaji, Koji Kojima and Dragon Agakawa. Teaming with Kitoaji's foe Tatsuko was clearly aimed at getting under the challenger's skin, and the two nearly came to blows after the match with Kitoaji clearly unimpressed at the champion's gamesmanship.

Needless to say, the Dec. 5 showdown is one of the most hotly anticipated in PGHW's short history.

* * *

Elsewhere, at just 21 years of age, Raymond Diaz was thrust into a leadership role of Club Dread. Once a fearsome trio, the team of Diaz, Craig Prince and Takesi Umehara looked decidedly second rate this tour as Diaz suffered four straight defeats following the Nov. 25 televised show. Among those defeats, three involved the PGHW stalwart, Danger Kumasaka, who had spent much of the tour terrorising Diaz's men.

After one such defeat, Diaz promised a surprise later in the tour - which eventuated in the form of his leader, Dread! Unsighted since September 1997, Dread returned on the penultimate night of the tour in Toyama - helping his men deliver a beating to Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa.

Immediately after the show, a battered Kumasaka vowed revenge against the faction - announcing a tag team match for "Night of WRESTLING" pitting Dread & Diaz against Kumasaka & Hasegawa - the Elite Tag Series runners up, T.O.P. Team!

One could be forgiven that the announcement - along with the injury to Lee Wright - would mean the rivalry between Club Dread and Team Electric's Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo would be put on ice, given the duo were due to face their arch enemies Wright & Diaz on Dec. 5. But Kumasaka also announced that Miwa & Mushashibo would face the other two members of Club Dread at "Night of WRESTLING": Craig Prince & Takesi Umehara.

* * *

There will be plenty of tag team action at "Night of WRESTLING", as one of the most hotly anticipated bouts will take place between Glory Tag Crown holders Codebreakers 1996 and former champions Yodo Nakane & Shuji Inukai.

Inukai & Nakane were forced to relinquish the titles in July following an injury to Inukai, and after a period on the shelf both returned at "Night of COURAGE" to challenge the current champions for what they consider to be rightfully theirs.

The former champions continued a series of tune ups throughout the tour, beating the likes of Kojima & Mamoru Nagahama, Blackjack Robbins & Rick Sanders and Ichihara & Agakawa. But against the tag champions, they largely shared the spoils - a series of multi-man matches giving the crowd a taste of what might be to come in the Dec. 5 title match.

On the final night of the tour, Codebreakers 1996 teamed with Java to face Nakane, Inukai & Shawn Gonzalez. After a heated battle which saw some brawling on the outside, it was Eisaku Hoshino who picked up the pin for his team - nailing Gonzalez with a Godzilla Plunge to cap off the perfect preparation.

* * *

Finally, Historical Japan champion Nobuatsu Tatsuko had his hands full this tour - not only in keepings tabs on new stablemates, the Pacific Predators, but also in dealing with the Dragon Squad.

After dealing out a cheap shot to Koji Kojima on Nov. 25 - the challenger for his title - his Forged in Fire faction struggled against the numbers of Dragon Agakawa's men.

Kojima, meanwhile, continued to build momentum throughout the tour, cheered on by veteran and mentor Agakawa. He comes into his second shot at the Historical Japan title in exceptional form, and many think he is the biggest threat to Tatsuko's quest to enter a fourth consecutive year as champion.

</div>

PGHW "Night of WRESTLING", 05.12.1997 (JSV2)

Osaka-jō Hall

Card Subject To Change

Blackjack Robbins, Rick Sanders & Shawn Gonzalez vs. The New Rebellion (Natsu Miyamae & Noriyori Sanda) & Hiroyasu Gakusha.
Dragon Squad (Dragon Agakawa, Harumi Okazawaya, Mamoru Nagahama & Sotatsu Sarumara) vs. Pacific Predators (Amiri Ngala & Java), Koichi Kajiwara & Ninsei Tanuma.
Craig Prince & Takesi Umehara vs. Team Electric (Mito Miwa & Yoshimi Mushashibo).
Dread & Raymond Diaz vs. T.O.P. Team (Danger Kumasaka & Hayate Hasegawa).

</div>

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