5 Most improved performers of the G1 Climax 31

3) Tanga Loa – G1 Climax 31

The lack of talent available for the G1 Climax 31 opened the door for tag team experts to get their chance in the tournament. The Guerrillas of Destiny are among the best tag teams in wrestling today and, probably, the most decorated in NJPW history.

Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa haven't always gotten the opportunity to shine on their own, but the G1 Climax 31 allowed them to take part in singles competition in the A and B Blocks. Tama Tonga has shown in the past that he is charismatic and has the skills to stand out on his own. To many, Tanga Loa was the lesser of the G.O.D., but this year's tournament showed that he is quite capable as well.

On Night 7 of the G1 Climax 31, Loa clashed with Tomohiro Ishii. The Stone Pitbull is usually a G1 MVP candidate and brings out the best in his opponents. He did just that against Tanga Loa in a stiff fight that displayed both men's strength. Ishii hit the vertical drop brainbuster to defeat the Bullet Club member.

If his contest with Ishii was hard-hitting, his battle with Kota Ibushi on Night 11 of the G1 Climax 31 was a step up in physicality. The level of intensity was ramped up as their matchup went on, with Ibushi beating Loa with the Kamigoye. Tanga had yet another splendid encounter with Shingo Takagi on Night 13 that once again showed just how much fans have underestimated Loa.