Liger vs Sano (Way of the Blade Art Print)
"Jushin Liger vs Naoki Sano" - ink & digital illustration
NJPW New Spring Gold Series 1990, 1.31.1990, Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium
Another of my favourite illustrations from the original Way of the Blade book & another match (& feud) that I love dearly.
As a long-time Liger fan, Naoki Sano/Takuma Sano is officially my favourite opponent of Liger's incredible career. A rivalry that goes back to their days as New Japan Young Boys in 1984 & goes all the to Liger's 2020 retirement in the Tokyo Dome.
For me, this early 90's series was the peak of their rivalry with some absolutely incredible, heated matches. This was the match that capped off that era of their feud as Sano would go onto SWS and then the world of Shoot-Style in Pro Wrestling Fujiwara Gumi & BattleArts. A key thing about these matches that I really loved was the hate-filled nature of them - that really transcended much of what Junior Heavyweight Wrestling in New Japan was at the time. And this one in particular as Sano gives Liger a piledriver on the outside, runs his head into the ring-post & tears open his mask to reveal a heck of a crimson mask. The visual of Liger trying his best to fight back against an amazingly skilled, crafty & ruthless Sano, all bloodied up with his mask hanging off is just all-time great! Just a terrific match!!
If you dig yourself some Liger, please do yourself a favour and check out the wonderful feud that is Liger vs Sano.
ENJOY!!!
Fancy, high quality art prints of this book illustration are now available to purchase for as little as 25 clams, FREE worldwide postage!
HQ Basic Art Prints: Printed on 189gsm, museum-quality matte paper stock, printed with high-quality multicolour, water-based inkjet printing technique. (Printing & delivery arranged by Printful).
'Premium' Art Prints: Voluptuously extra thick, textured & hand-signed! Printed on 320gsm 'Sihl Masterclass Textured Cotton Rag', French made, Cold Press style textured art paper. 1cm additional border for easy framing unless otherwise requested. High archival rating, printed with 12 colour Canon Lucia EX pigment Inks, expected life over 100 years if displayed correctly. Since I send these out myself, I'll also include a little bonus 'surprise' for you! + ALL PREMIUM PRINT PURCHASES COME WITH CHRIS THINGS ZINE VOL. 1!!
Please don't hesitate to send me a message if you require a different size - all prints made to order.