Writing an introduction for a review that only features two matches is hard. It’s another slice of Young Lion Cup action, what do you want me to say?
Clark Connors (2-1) defeated Yota Tsuji (1-2)
There wasn’t much fancy about Clark Connors’ victory over Yota Tsuji. They went out and played all the Young Lion hits from Bodyslams to Dropkicks to Crabs with the most complicated thing being a Spear from Connors. However, it was as solidly a worked match as you will see and that more than made up for the lack of fancy shit.
Because this felt like two guys who get it. They brought fire and intensity to the action, making even the simple grappling at the start feel important. Too many wrestlers dance through that stuff with a glazed look on their face, but these two acted like it was an integral part of the action and not just a way to build-up to the cooler shit.
And they did pull off a pretty nifty finish as Connors sidestepped a Tsuji Spear before taking off to connect with one of his own. A Crab later and he’d put an end to a highly enjoyable slice of wrestling.
Verdict: Three And A Quarter Stars
Ren Narita (2-1) defeated Alex Coughlin (2-1)
Narita is the smallest participant in the Young Lion Cup, and his size brings with it some downsides. Coughlin was able to overpower him early on, at one point hitting a single chop that sent him flopping to the floor in a style reminiscent of Zack Sabre Jr.
What Narita lacks in size he makes up for in heart as his desperate crawl to the ropes to escape a Crab proved. The Japanese fans were firmly in his corner and Coughlin did a good job of playing into that, slipping into the bullying heel role as he picked Narita up with ease before throwing him across the ring.
It was a set-up which made for a hot finish as Narita finally managed to hold the bridge after his Belly to Belly Suplex, getting the three after cutting off Coughlin’s attempt to fire-up. It was a big win for him and a brilliantly put together match from two exciting prospects.
Verdict: Three And A Half Stars
Overall Show
After a slight drop off the day before, the Young Lion Cup came roaring back with two strong matches. I feel like I’m repeating myself, but this thing is a ridiculously easy watch and is well worth the small amount of time that is required.
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