>>18565497I'd argue that this match is not indicative of the current state of NOAH, as it's really just the last gasp of 2000's nostalgia... but current NOAH is not in a particularly strong state. I'm not super keen on defending it but I will say that (this match aside) they are FINALLY starting to bet on their younger talent. Kiyomiya and OZAWA are fresh and getting pushes. Kenoh is working with Ulka Sasaki. Harutoki seems to be getting a little more exposure, having just beaten Shiozaki to qualify for N-1 Victory. Owadasan has been booked adequately for such a young talent. Soya and Kitamiya aren't young but they're putting on top caliber matches and Kitamiya recently turned heel, so maybe something fresh for him.
Shiozaki and Sugiura are giving up the spotlight to younger talent, even though I'd argue both are still solid in ring. KENTA seems to be poised to put over the next big talent.
Marufuji... well... he still seems to think he can go, so he's usually booked near the top of the card but he really can't handle much more than a special attraction match these days... and the "special" has long become ironic.
