Toru Yano (6) vs. Taichi (6)
The one and only Yano faced the Dark Emperor who was accompanied by the beautiful Miho Abe. Seeing her is always a good start to any match, and I looked forward to how Yano would handle her brand of distraction. Yano brought a red steel chair to use outside the ring, while Taichi brought his Iron Fingers, so there would be a lot of opportunity for shenanigans.
Taichi rolled out of the ring right after the opening bell, infuriating Yano. Yano left the match and Kanemaru, Taichi's faction brother, brought a whiskey bottle out to choke Yano with. Kanemaru was rolled up in the ring apron but still beat the count.
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The referee helped Yano get free of the detached apron, and he got his trusty ringpost cover to grab the advantage. Yano attempted a pinfall but Taichi rallied with a Gedo clutch. Kanemaru waited for Yano to roll out of the ring, but his Suntory special was blocked.
Yano returned Taichi's favour and wrapped him with Kanemaru into another segment of the ring apron. That was enough to keep Taichi from beating a 20-count. Yano ended Taichi's chance at the Finals and snagged the 2 points.
Results: Toru Yano (8) def. Taichi (6) via countout