A leopard can’t change his spots, which is a statement that perfectly sums up former NEVER Openweight Champion Taichi. The New Japan star has showcased in the past that he can hang with the best wrestlers in the world toe-to-toe; however, Taichi is notorious for his underhanded tactics and that remained true here.
Goto’s wrestling skill outclassed Taichi, but the former NEVER Openweight Champion continuously had a trick up his sleeve. Taichi has been hit and miss in the G1 Climax thus far; however, the New Japan star’s underhanded tactics got him the win as he connected with a low blow and then a Gedo Clutch.
Taichi's record in the G1 Climax is now 2-2 (4 points), whereas Goto’s score stands at 1-3 (2 points).