At AEW Collision on Saturday, Kazuchika Okada successfully defended his International Championship by defeating Adam Priest in his first AEW match of the year. Despite Priest’s strategy to target Okada’s knees and interference from Rocky Romero—who began the match at commentary before joining the fray—Okada maintained control and secured the win with his signature Rainmaker Lariat.
This marked Okada’s fourth title defense this season and his first solo defense. He last appeared in AEW late last year, where he beat Konosuke Takeshita but then fell to Jon Moxley in the Continental Classic semifinals and finals, losing the Continental Championship after holding it for 647 days. Following that loss, Okada continued solely as the International Champion, a title he originally captured alongside the Continental Championship at All In Texas by defeating Kenny Omega. Earlier this year, Okada also scored a victory over Hiroshi Tanahashi in the latter’s retirement match during Wrestle Kingdom’s main event.
Fan Take: Okada’s return and title defense solidify his status as a top international star in AEW, providing fans with thrilling cross-promotional matches. His involvement not only elevates AEW’s global appeal but also hints at exciting future storylines that could blend Japanese wrestling with AEW’s unique style, benefiting the sport overall.
