In his last match-up against Zack Sabre Jr., Hiroshi Tanahashi was able to pull off his first win after a rough beginning in the G1 Climax.
His opponent, Lance Archer, has been making a statement since first defeating IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion Will Ospreay. The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion knew how much of a threat the former IWGP Tag Team Champion has been in the tournament thus far and immediately went on the attack before the bell even rang.
Tanahashi targeted Archer’s legs; however, the Texas native would eventually get the best of Tanahashi thanks to his strength. Archer seemingly had the bout won when he placed Tanahashi on the top rope; however, the New Japan veteran used his quickness to escape and surprised Archer with a victory roll for a three count within 12-minutes.
Hiroshi Tanahashi’s record in the G1 Climax is now 2-2 (4 points), whereas Lance Archer’s score is now at 2-2 (4 points) as well.