In the world of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), few rivalries showcase pure strong-style wrestling better than the legendary clashes between Togi Makabe and Tomohiro Ishii. Their battles have become some of the most brutal and unforgettable encounters in NJPW history, featuring stiff strikes, powerful suplexes, and incredible resilience.
One of their most famous fights took place during the King of Pro Wrestling 2015 event, where they competed for the prestigious NEVER Openweight Championship. This match was not just about winning a title—it was about proving who was the toughest fighter in NJPW.
In this article, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the Makabe vs Ishii full fight, analyzing every major moment, strategy, and the legacy left behind by these two warriors.
Background of the Match
Before this match, Makabe and Ishii had already fought multiple times, and each time, their fights had become increasingly intense.
The NEVER Openweight Championship
The NEVER Openweight title is known for its hard-hitting, no-nonsense battles. Unlike NJPW’s heavyweight or junior heavyweight titles, the NEVER belt is designed for fighters who rely on pure strength, endurance, and fighting spirit.
- Tomohiro Ishii had established himself as one of the most dominant champions in the NEVER division. His ability to take punishment and keep fighting made him a terrifying opponent.
- Togi Makabe, known as the “Unchained Gorilla,” was determined to take the championship from Ishii and prove his dominance.
With their history of brutal fights, everyone expected this match to be a physical war—and that’s exactly what happened.
Wrestler Profiles
Togi Makabe – The “Unchained Gorilla”
Togi Makabe is one of NJPW’s most respected veterans, known for his aggressive brawling style and fearless attitude.
Fighting Style:
A mix of brutal power moves, strong lariats, and hardcore-style attacks.
Strengths:
- Can absorb a huge amount of punishment.
- Uses his raw power to wear down opponents.
- Famous for his King Kong Knee Drop, a high-impact move from the top rope.
Makabe is a wrestler who never backs down from a fight, making him the perfect challenger for Ishii’s championship.
Tomohiro Ishii – The “Stone Pitbull”
Tomohiro Ishii is one of NJPW’s toughest competitors, known for his never-say-die attitude and insane endurance.
Fighting Style:
Pure strong-style wrestling with a focus on stiff strikes and devastating suplexes.
Strengths:
- Takes extreme amounts of damage without showing pain.
- Master of counterattacks, using sudden suplexes and lariats.
- Finishing move, the Brainbuster, is one of the most dangerous in NJPW.
With his iron will and unmatched endurance, Ishii was the perfect opponent for a warrior like Makabe.
Fight Breakdown – Key Moments
Opening Phase – Testing Each Other’s Strength
- The match immediately started with both men staring each other down, showing no fear.
- Instead of using technical holds, they began throwing forearm strikes at full force.
- Neither man backed down, taking turns hitting each other harder and harder.
- The NJPW crowd roared as both wrestlers refused to fall despite the brutal blows.
This opening phase set the tone for the entire match—this wasn’t just a wrestling match, this was a fight.
Mid-Match – The Battle Intensifies
- Ishii gained the upper hand by delivering multiple stiff chops and headbutts, forcing Makabe into the corner.
- Makabe fought back with a huge clothesline, nearly knocking Ishii down, but the “Stone Pitbull” refused to fall.
- Ishii responded with a suplex out of nowhere, shaking the entire ring.
- The two traded massive lariats, hitting each other over and over, but neither would go down.
At this point, the crowd was fully behind both wrestlers, cheering loudly for the sheer intensity of the fight.
Final Moments – Who Will Survive?
- Makabe attempted his King Kong Knee Drop, climbing the top rope, but Ishii rolled out of the way at the last second.
- Ishii countered with a Sliding Lariat, nearly getting the win, but Makabe kicked out at two and a half!
- The two men struggled to stand, exhausted but still fighting.
- In the final sequence, Ishii lifted Makabe and hit a devastating Brainbuster, finally pinning him for the victory.
The match was over, but both men had proven their strength, heart, and endurance in this unforgettable battle.
Post-Match Reactions and Aftermath
Winner: Tomohiro Ishii
- Ishii retained the NEVER Openweight Championship, proving once again that he was one of the toughest men in NJPW history.
- Though battered and barely able to stand, Ishii held his title high, showing the world he was still the dominant force in the NEVER division.
Makabe’s Response
- Even though Makabe lost, he earned the respect of the entire NJPW fanbase for his never-give-up attitude.
- Many believed that if Makabe had landed his King Kong Knee Drop, he might have won.
Match Analysis and Legacy
Fan and Critic Reception
- The match received high ratings from wrestling critics.
- Fans praised it as one of the best NEVER Openweight title matches ever.
- Many called it a perfect example of NJPW’s strong-style wrestling, where toughness and endurance matter more than flashy moves.
Importance in NJPW History
- This fight helped solidify the NEVER Openweight Championship as one of NJPW’s most prestigious titles.
- Ishii became a true legend of the division, known for his violent and thrilling title defenses.
- Makabe continued to be a respected NJPW veteran, proving he could still compete at the highest level.
Influence on Future Wrestlers
- Younger wrestlers in NJPW have studied this match to learn the art of strong-style wrestling.
- The Makabe vs. Ishii rivalry has inspired other hard-hitting feuds in NJPW.
Conclusion
The Makabe vs Ishii full fight at King of Pro Wrestling 2015 was not just a fight—it was a war between two of NJPW’s toughest warriors.
This match showcased the true essence of strong-style wrestling, where pain is ignored, endurance is tested, and only the strongest survives.
For wrestling fans who love hard-hitting, no-nonsense matches, this fight is a must-watch. If you haven’t seen it yet, go find it—you won’t regret it!
FAQs
Why is the Makabe vs. Ishii match considered a classic?
It was a pure strong-style war, featuring brutal strikes, no-selling, and an intense battle of endurance.
What makes Tomohiro Ishii such a tough competitor?
His iron will and ability to absorb punishment without backing down make him one of NJPW’s toughest wrestlers.
How did Togi Makabe challenge Ishii’s dominance?
Makabe used relentless brawling and power moves, nearly winning with his signature King Kong Knee Drop.
What was the most shocking moment in the match?
Ishii survived a series of devastating lariats and countered with a last-minute Brainbuster for the win.
How did this match impact NJPW’s NEVER Openweight Championship?
It elevated the title’s prestige, proving it was the championship for warriors who fight with pure heart and strength.
