While many wrestling fans are excited about the idea of new IWGP champion Jon Moxley defending NJPW’s top title on AEW television, one member of the Japanese promotion’s roster is pretty upset about a defense happening on this week’s edition of AEW Dynamite.
Earlier this month, Jon Moxley made professional wrestling history when he became the first person to win a WWE, AEW, and NJPW world title when he defeated Tatsuya Naito for the IWGP strap at the company’s Windy City event. Following the victory, the moment was met with much praise and excitement for the fan-favorite performer.
However, the legendary belt has always been carefully handled and title opportunities are not handed out frequently. But that is going to soon change after it was announced last week that Moxley would defend his new title on tonight’s AEW Dynamite against rising star Powerhouse Hobbs.
While the booking might make sense for AEW content, it is an odd decision for the next challenger to such a prestigious title.
Well, the news does not sit well with NJPW veteran Yota Tsuji. The 2024 New Japan Cup winner took AEW and NJPW to task on the news during a recent interview with Tokyo Sports.
“Where was the value of the IWGP? If Moxley has agreed to be the champion, then he certainly has the right to fight for the title.” Tsuji said (h/t Wrestling Inc). “The problem is that New Japan Pro-Wrestling didn’t say anything about it. What is that feeling? I wonder if they don’t feel any discomfort with that. I feel nothing but disgust and displeasure.”
There is a chance Tsuji may have done the interview in character to set up an eventual feud with Jon Moxley. However, that is unclear at this time and could be an honest opinion on a surprising move by NJPW.
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