New Japan G1 Climax 31 results for Saturday, Sept. 18: Ishii vs. Shingo, Naito vs. Sabre, and more

It’s, well... a few months after that time of year again, and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW)'s G1 Climax tournament is back to ruin sleep schedules all over the globe!

This year's version, the 31st annual, will feature 20 men competing across 19 dates for a spot in the finals on October 21. Each show will be broadcast worldwide on New Japan's streaming service, NJPW World.

Opening day action takes place in Osaka’s Edion Arena Osaka, kicking off at 4AM Eastern / 1AM Pacific, and it's all about A Block, one of two groupings whose winner will go on to a spot in the finals.

Yujiro Takahashi over Kota Ibushi by pinfall with Big Juice.

Great-O-Khan over Tanga Loa by pinfall with Eliminator.

Toru Yano over KENTA by pinfall with a low blow and a roll-up.

Zack Sabre, Jr. over Tetsuya Naito by submission with YES! I AM A LONG WAY FROM HOME.

Shingo Takagi over Tomohiro Ishii by pinfall with Last of the Dragon.

Moving forward, we'll post records and standings. This being day one of A Block, all competitors start on even ground!

Enjoy the show!