Katsushi Takemura left New Japan as a plain-looking, generic young wrestler. However, after a successful learning excursion to CMLL in Mexico, where Takemura learned the art of "rudo", he returned with a brand new look and new moves. Throughout the month long "
SUMMER FIGHT SERIES 2002", Takemura faced seven of New Japan's top junior heavyweights. He managed no wins, but the experience was vital for his future progress.
Katsushi Takemura Jr. Trial Series (6/21/02 to 7/19/02)
1. (6/21/02 @ Tokyo Korakuen Hall) El Samurai beat Katsushi Takemura (7:52) with a chickenwing armlock.
2. (6/23/02 @ Nagaoka Welfare Hall) Tiger Mask beat Katsushi Takemura (6:05) with a cross armbreaker.
3. (7/4/02 @ Hyogo Prefectural Budokan) Masayuki Naruse beat Katsushi Takemura (12:58) with a cross armbreaker.
4. (7/8/02 @ Gifu Industrial Hall) Minoru Tanaka beat Katsushi Takemura (10:08) with a single-leg crab hold.
5. (7/10/02 @ Tokyo Korakuen Hall) Dr. Wagner Jr. beat Katsushi Takemura (9:44) with the Doctor Driver.
6. (7/16/02 @ Iwate Prefectural Gymnasium) Masahito Kakihara beat Katsushi Takemura (2:25) with a kneelock.
7. (7/19/02 @ Hokkaido Sports Center) Jushin Thunder Liger beat Katsushi Takemura (7:18) with a brainbuster.
