Ryohei Oiwa won the 2026 G1 Climax 36 on August 16, defeating Yuya Uemura in the tournament final at Tokyo's Ryogoku Sumo Hall. Oiwa forced Uemura to submit at roughly 35 minutes to capture the first G1 crown of his career.
With the victory, Oiwa earned a shot at the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, currently held by Yota Tsuji. Oiwa announced he intends to challenge for the title at NJPW King of Pro-Wrestling on October 12.
Elsewhere on the card, Jeff Cobb made a surprise return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, capping a notable night as the promotion closed out its marquee summer tournament.