Watch Donovan Metoyer nail Stage One. In a suit.

Okay, who had a better run than Donovan Metoyer on night one of the American Ninja Warrior National Finals? He didn’t have the top time, but he did hit the buzzer and he did it with a huge dollop of style and we’re not just talking about his suit.

You can watch the whole run here.

But let’s just take a moment to appreciate this 360 on the Warped Wall. He’s done it before in competition, but this was in the middle of Stage One! With the clock ticking!

Until this run, no one had luck with The High Road. They either didn’t get there in time, or they decided the trampoline jump was too much of a risk and moved over to the Fly Hooks. Then came Donovan, who did not even flinch in his approach and nailed the transfer. That allowed him a triumphant, easy ride to the buzzer.

All these impressive moves reminded us of our conversation with Donovan back in season 12, when he pulled off his first 360 Warped Wall. After not getting called for the show in seasons 10 and 11, Donovan knew he had to make his season 12 appearance count. He had to be remembered. Keeping that in mind, he’s using his skills to show us he’s ready to be considered one of the greats.

I’ve been training hard, I know I have the grip strength and endurance to make it deep into the course. To have my name plastered alongside the likes of Daniel Gil and Najee Richardson.

It’s a checkmark in the box of the progression I’ve made so far. I still have a long way to go. I’m not where I want to be exactly. I want to be one of the best Ninjas in the world. This is one of those starting blocks. This season right here is another starting block in the continuation of that process.

Congrats on checking Stage One off your list, Donovan! Let’s see what Stage Two brings for the Classy Ninja.