Background: After five years of existence, Ring of Honor taped its first pay-per-view event. Long-time ROH competitor and legitimate tough guy BJ Whitmer decided to kick off the show with an open challenge. Maybe biting off more than he could chew, Whitmer’s challenge was answered by the ROH World champion Takeshi Morishima.
Respect is Earned
New York, NY
May 12, 2007
Takeshi Morishima vs. BJ Whitmer
Whitmer refused to hold any quarter as the fans chanted in favor of the ROH World champion – who was willing to put his title on the line. Dey was a clubberin’ in Naw Yolk, Tony! Morishima caught the running Whitmer with a side slam before kicking and punching BJ to the point he was crumbled in the corner. The crowd was going crazy as the champion motioned for his Backdrop Driver. The challenger turned in midair, putting Morishima down for a near fall. BJ followed up with his Exploder Suplex finisher … to gain another two count!
The fans couldn’t believe BJ was taking this kind out of fight to the unstoppable Japanese monster. Clotheslines and frog splashes peppered Takeshi until the big man got frustrated enough to respond with a decapitating clothesline of his own. BJ Whitmer struggled to his feet, only to feel not only a big boot to his jaw, but also the Backdrop Driver. Morishima quickly made the cover to successfully defend his championship.
Winner: Takeshi Morishima (2:55)
Is It A Classic: A glorified squash, but the action occurred in front of one of the hottest crowds in ROH history; creating a unique experience rarely seen in wrestling. Definitely a great way to kick off a historic show.
