New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) will host its biggest annual event, “Wrestle Kingdom 20,” at Tokyo Dome on January 4th, featuring a highly anticipated double title match. IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Konosuke Takeshita will face off against IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion Yota Tsuji, with the winner claiming both championship belts. Tsuji has been vocal about his disapproval of NJPW’s partnership with AEW, criticizing the fact that the top New Japan title is held by an outsider with no strong ties to NJPW. He even suggested NJPW should sever its relationship with AEW and focus on its own promotion.
In response, Takeshita addressed Tsuji’s remarks during an interview on NJPW’s official website. He clarified that his approach as champion is misunderstood; he is driven not by fame or the size of the event but by a genuine passion for wrestling whenever and wherever possible. Takeshita emphasized his eagerness to face the best competitors globally, both in Japan and internationally. While acknowledging Tsuji’s pride in NJPW loyalty, Takeshita challenged Tsuji to prove his dedication by trying to win the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship from him.
Despite Tsuji’s discomfort with the top NJPW title being held by a wrestler associated with AEW, Takeshita takes pride in representing NJPW on a global scale. He believes his reign as champion has brought significant international attention to the promotion. Takeshita requested the media and fans to see the belt’s value and significance beyond Japan, highlighting his recent trip to England where he showcased the title. Reflecting on his own experiences growing up as a fan in Osaka, Takeshita understands why fans might feel the championship should remain in Japan, but insists that the IWGP World Heavyweight Title is meant to be defended worldwide.
Takeshita plans to continue promoting and defending the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship through the Continental Classic campaign, culminating with the showdown at Wrestle Kingdom. He feels confident about having fan support and looks forward to testing Tsuji’s abilities in Tokyo Dome.
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Fan Take: This confrontation between Takeshita and Tsuji underscores the evolving dynamic between AEW and NJPW, highlighting how cross-promotional partnerships can redefine wrestling’s global landscape. AEW fans should watch closely, as this storyline not only elevates the prestige of the IWGP title but also showcases AEW’s influence in the international wrestling scene.
