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Yota Tsuji’s recent remarks about AEW weren’t meant to spark controversy or suggest a cross-promotional event. A fresh backstage report indicates he was entirely serious in his sentiments.
In an interview with NJPW1972.com, Tsuji was asked if his upcoming match against Konosuke Takeshita at Wrestle Kingdom could be viewed as a crossover event, given Takeshita’s connections to AEW. Tsuji quickly dismissed that notion, clearly stating his stance.
“Well, I don’t want to lose to AEW. I hate AEW. To be frank, I want to sever ties with AEW because that’s how I feel.”
When reminded of the intensity of his statements, Tsuji questioned the value of the relationship altogether.
“What has AEW really done for New Japan Pro Wrestling? It would be one thing if it were a mutually beneficial relationship, but it’s not.”
Tsuji acknowledged the financial disparity between both companies but asserted this shouldn’t dictate New Japan’s strategy.
“Yes, there are financial differences, but that shouldn’t mean they’re pushovers. We’re New Japan Pro-Wrestling, after all.”
However, he took a more nuanced view when reflecting on the history of cross-promotion, especially regarding Kazuchika Okada’s involvement with Hiroshi Tanahashi.
“On another note, Kazuchika Okada did help fill the Tokyo Dome, and that’s a fact. It’s unfortunate that a New Japan Pro Wrestler won’t face Tanahashi in his final match, but no one on the roster has stronger ties to Tanahashi than Okada, and that’s undeniable.”
After the interview gained traction, some speculated that Tsuji’s comments were either exaggerated because of his match with Takeshita or out of character. However, an update from Fightful Select offers a different perspective.
According to Fightful, New Japan Pro Wrestling officials did not view Tsuji as acting in character and noted he has openly expressed his discontent with AEW for years.
“In discussions with New Japan Pro Wrestling officials, they didn’t see Yota Tsuji as fitting that mold when discussing his views on AEW’s relationship with New Japan. They mentioned he has been quite vocal about it recently.”
The report also highlighted Tsuji’s hesitation to appear on American programs linked to the partnership, despite having done so before. Adding complexity, it was revealed that Tsuji was once considered for a main event match in AEW.
“Ironically, Tsuji was at one point a candidate for an AEW World Title match against Swerve Strickland at AEW Forbidden Door 2024. However, Will Ospreay stepped in to face Swerve and was defeated.”
This update recontextualizes Tsuji’s interview as more significant than mere pre-match banter. Rather than conforming to the narrative between promotions, Tsuji appears to be genuinely frustrated with New Japan Pro Wrestling’s circumstances, even as they continue their competitive relationship.
What are your thoughts on Yota Tsuji’s candid remarks? Do you think they could influence the relationship between New Japan Pro Wrestling and AEW moving forward, or is this simply a long-overdue honesty coming to light? Share your opinions and feedback below.
Fan Take: Tsuji’s bold statements highlight the growing tensions between major wrestling promotions, underscoring the complexities of partnerships in the industry. This honesty could signify a pivotal shift in how wrestlers approach their affiliations, potentially affecting future storylines and rivalries.
