Josh Barnett defends use of headlock in wrestling following G1 Climax final

Josh Barnett responded on social media after Ryohei Oiwa used a headlock, called the Big Lock, to win the NJPW 2026 G1 Climax against Yuya Uemura. Barnett defended the move, countering Dave Meltzer's comments that headlocks lack realism in real fights. He referenced Masahiro Kakihara's use of a similar technique as a finisher. This discussion comes amid fans celebrating Oiwa’s victory, as he prepares to challenge for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship at the upcoming King of Pro-Wrestling event in October.

• 9:46 PMWrestling Inc — Josh Barnett Defends Headlock As Finishing Move In Wake Of NJPW 2026 G1 Climax Final