Article by Tokio Tsukada, Revised by Kyle Dunning
Calling all Pro Wrestling NOAH enthusiasts! Brace yourself for July 13th when wrestling legend AJ Styles graces the ring at the renowned Budokan arena. Styles, who identifies WWE as his current home, will duel with NOAH powerhouse Naomichi Marufuji in a match full of anticipation.
Styles conveyed his admiration for Marufuji, remarking, “Marufuji, your talent is evident and your prosperous career speaks volumes. On July 13, let’s give it our all.” He proceeded to commend Japanese wrestling, asserting, “Japanese wrestling boasts an extraordinary standard. Pro Wrestling NOAH reigns supreme in this regard. Marufuji is among the greatest I’ve ever witnessed.”
Recap from Grand Ship 2024 in Yokohama
Pro Wrestling NOAH recently hosted a paramount event, Abema presents Grand Ship 2024 in YOKOHAMA, on June 16th at BUNTAI. The event was packed with ten gripping matches, which comprised of:
- GHC Junior Heavy Championship: Daga defended his title for the 7th consecutive time against Starboy Charlie.
- GHC Tag Championship: The remarkable streak of Jack Morris and Anthony Greene ended when Naomichi Marufuji and Takashi Sugiura seized the day.
Marufuji’s compelling performances, notably a memorable bout against Will Ospreay last year, has fans on the edge of their seats for his showdown with AJ Styles.
Stealing the Show
Kaito Kiyomiya, the GHC Heavyweight Champion, faced down Gabe Kidd from the Bullet Club of New Japan Pro Wrestling in the main event. Kidd’s aggressive tactics, including a ferocious attack on ring announcer G-Man, were met with Kiyomiya’s determined resistance. Impressively, Kiyomiya clinched victory with a stellar variant of “The Shining Wizard.”
In the aftermath of the riveting contest, YOICHI was declared as the next contender for the GHC title, paving the way for another electrifying match at Budokan in July.
Influence of the WWE Partnership
The recent alliance between Pro Wrestling NOAH and WWE has triggered considerable buzz, indicating thrilling matchups and an expanded global footprint.
In light of AJ Styles’ ingress and the positive ripple effects of their WWE alliance, Pro Wrestling NOAH is heating up. Fans are fervently awaiting the July 13th event at Budokan, where the cream of the crop in wrestling will exhibit their prowess. The promotion is streamed on Wrestle Universe. Keep your eyes peeled for further developments from Pro Wrestling NOAH!