Category: NJPW

Backstage News on Why NJPW Has Cut Back on U.S. Shows in 2025

New Japan Pro Wrestling’s footprint in the United States has noticeably shrunk this year, and new details are shedding light on why fans aren’t seeing as many American dates from the promotion in 2025.

According to Fightful Select, NJPW has only run three shows in the U.S. by the end of August. That’s a sharp decline compared to six in 2024 and eight in 2023 — and that doesn’t even factor in the company’s collaborative events with other promotions.

The reasons behind the pullback appear to be a mix of business and talent concerns. Ticket sales for NJPW’s American events have been slipping, which has made the financial side of the expansion harder to justify. On top of that, some wrestlers within the company reportedly aren’t enthusiastic about making the trips across the Pacific, leading management to rethink how often they stage shows in the States.

This isn’t the first time NJPW’s U.S. strategy has shifted. Years ago, the company pushed hard to build its presence in North America, bolstered by a roster of international stars. Even after the exodus of talent to AEW, NJPW pressed ahead with its expansion, introducing the STRONG brand during the pandemic to keep its U.S.-based wrestlers active. That initiative eventually came to an end, but NJPW still maintained some of its championships and sporadically held American shows.

The landscape, however, has changed dramatically since AEW’s arrival. With AEW now firmly established as the number two promotion in North America — and offering the kind of in-ring product that once drove fans to NJPW — New Japan’s influence outside Japan has diminished.

For now, it seems the company is prioritizing stability at home rather than overextending abroad. American fans may have fewer chances to see NJPW live in 2025, but the promotion continues to focus on strengthening its core product in Japan.

AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door London Results 8/24/2025, Wardlow Returns

AEW and NJPW brought the chaos to London’s O2 Arena for this year’s Forbidden Door, a marathon show that blended dream matches, title defenses, and wild cross-promotional energy. From shocking saves to brutal wars inside a steel cage, the night had something for every type of wrestling fan. Here’s the full rundown of what went down match by match:

El Desperado, Paragon & Yuya Uemura def. CRU & Don Callis Family

The opener was a fast-paced, multi-man clash that swung back and forth until Yuya Uemura scored the deciding fall with a bridging butterfly suplex on Lio Rush. Post-match, the Callis Family ambushed the victors, only for Tomohiro Ishii to storm down and even the odds. The segment ended with a hot crowd-pleaser: Ishii planting Lance Archer with a thunderous brainbuster.

Gates of Agony & Ricochet def. JetSpeed & Michael Oku

Ricochet and the Gates controlled much of the action, isolating Michael Oku before chaos broke out with a string of dives. Despite a valiant effort from Oku and JetSpeed, Ricochet sealed the deal with his Spirit Gun finisher.

Megan Bayne & Triangle of Madness def. Kris Statlander, Willow Nightingale, Queen Aminata & Harley Cameron

The women’s eight-woman tag turned into a back-and-forth brawl. Miscommunication among the babyfaces gave Bayne an opening, and she flattened Harley Cameron with a Liger Bomb for the win.

AEW World Trios Championship: The Opps (c) def. Bullet Club War Dogs

Katsuyori Shibata, Samoa Joe, and Will Hobbs successfully defended their titles in a hard-hitting showdown with Bullet Club’s UK branch. The match ended when Joe dropped Robbie X with a Muscle Buster.

Adam Copeland & Christian Cage def. The Patriarchy

Old friends reunited as Copeland and Cage teamed up to take down Killswitch and Kip Sabian. After withstanding Patriarchy’s antics (and interference from Mother Wayne), Cage pinned Sabian following a spear from Copeland into an inverted DDT.

AEW TNT Championship: Kyle Fletcher (c) def. Hiromu Takahashi

In one of the night’s hardest-hitting bouts, Fletcher and Takahashi traded bombs until the champion finally retained with a brutal brainbuster.

AEW TBS Championship Four-Way: Mercedes Moné (c) def. Alex Windsor vs. Bozilla vs. Persephone

The TBS Champion survived a chaotic four-way. After near falls from every challenger and a tower of doom spot, Mercedes Moné snatched the win with a victory roll on Persephone.

IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Zack Sabre Jr. (c) def. Nigel McGuinness

In a technical masterclass, hometown hero Nigel McGuinness pushed ZSJ to the edge in his return to the ring. Sabre narrowly escaped with his title via a sunset flip pin. Post-match, the two shared a handshake and embrace, while Daniel Garcia loomed with visible tension.

AEW World Tag Team Championship: Brodido def. FTR & Hurt Syndicate (c)

This triple threat had constant action, with FTR and Brodido both trying to wrestle the gold away from Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin. In the chaos, Bandido hit a frog splash on Dax Harwood to secure the pin, crowning Brodido as the new champions.

AEW Unified Championship: Kazuchika Okada (c) def. Swerve Strickland

Okada retained the top prize after weathering Swerve’s storm. The challenger connected with multiple House Calls but couldn’t put the Rainmaker down. A final Rainmaker lariat ended it, but the aftermath stole the spotlight — Okada targeted Swerve’s knee with a chair until Wardlow aligned with Don Callis, leaving Strickland broken.

AEW Women’s World Championship: Toni Storm (c) def. Athena

Toni Storm survived a bruising battle with Athena, who nearly won with the O-Face before Billie Starkz’s antics backfired. Storm locked in the Chickenwing and forced Athena to tap out.

AEW Men’s World Championship: Hangman Page (c) def. MJF

With countouts and DQs allowed to decide the title, MJF threw everything at Hangman — weapons, low blows, and referee distractions. In the end, Page overcame it all, blasting Friedman with a Deadeye and Buckshot Lariat to retain.

Lights Out Steel Cage Match: Darby Allin, Golden Lovers, Hiroshi Tanahashi & Will Ospreay def. Death Riders & Young Bucks

The insane main event lived up to the Lights Out billing with chaos, blood, weapons, and a moonsault off the top of the cage from Will Ospreay. Tanahashi scored the winning fall with one last High Fly Flow in the UK. But celebration quickly turned dark as the Death Riders destroyed Ospreay post-match, stomping a chair around his neck while the crowd rained boos on Moxley.

AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 8/24/2025 (Card)

AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door – Sunday, August 24, 2025, at The O2 Arena in London, England – 11:30am ET with the Zero Hour pre-show and the main card starting at 1pm ET.

CARD

  • AEW World Championship Match (Title can change hands with DQ or Count Out): “Hangman” Adam Page (c) vs. MJF
  • IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Match: Zack Sabre Jr. (c) vs. Nigel McGuinness w/ Daniel Garcia
  • Lights Out Steel Cage Match: Golden Lovers (Kenny Omega & Kota Ibushi), Darby Allin, Hiroshi Tanahashi & Will Ospreay vs. Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, The Young Bucks & Gabe Kidd
  • AEW Unified Championship Match: Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Swerve Strickland
  • AEW Women’s Championship Match: “Timeless” Toni Storm (c) vs. Athena
  • AEW Tag Team Championship Match: Hurt Syndicate (c) vs. Brodido vs. FTR
  • AEW TBS Championship Match: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Alex Windsor vs. Bozilla (STARDOM) vs. Persephone (CMLL)
  • AEW TNT Championship Match: Kyle Fletcher (c) vs. Hiromu Takahashi
  • Adam Copeland & Christian Cage vs. Kip Sabian & Killswitch
  • (Zero Hour) Kyle O’Reilly, Roderick Strong, Yuya Uemura & El Desperado vs. Hechicero, Josh Alexander & CRU
  • (Zero Hour) The Triangle of Madness & Megan Bayne vs. Queen Aminata, Harley Cameron, Willow Nightingale & Kris Statlander

Mercedes Mone Adds Another Championship to Her Collection

Mercedes Mone’s championship resume just keeps growing. The AEW star has once again proven why she’s one of the most decorated names in women’s wrestling, walking away with yet another title to add to her already stacked collection.

In a Title vs. Title clash, Mone defeated Emersyn Jayne to retain her Rev Pro Undisputed British Women’s Championship and simultaneously capture the Discovery Wrestling Scottish Women’s Championship. With the win, she now boasts nine championships across her career — earning her the fitting nickname “Nine Belts Mone.”

Since making her move to AEW, Mone has kept herself busy by taking bookings overseas, continuing to build her reputation as one of wrestling’s most sought-after global stars. This latest title victory further cements her as a dominant force who isn’t just making waves in AEW, but across the independent and international scene as well.

It’ll be interesting to see how AEW highlights Mone’s growing collection of hardware and whether these outside championships will play into her ongoing storylines on TV. For now, though, Mone’s reign as one of wrestling’s most in-demand champions shows no sign of slowing down.

A Decorated Career of Championships

Mone’s championship journey has stretched across multiple companies and continents. Here’s a quick look at some of the most notable titles she’s held during her career:

  • WWE Women’s Championships: A multiple-time champion on both Raw and SmackDown, Mone (then known as Sasha Banks) left her mark with memorable reigns that helped redefine the division.
  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Alongside Bayley, she was part of the very first team to win the titles, cementing her place in tag team history.
  • IWGP Women’s Championship: After leaving WWE, she shocked the world by capturing gold in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, helping elevate NJPW’s newly launched women’s division.
  • Rev Pro Undisputed British Women’s Championship: Her current reign overseas has been another example of how she continues to grow her global presence.
  • Discovery Wrestling Scottish Women’s Championship: The latest addition to her trophy case, proving she’s not slowing down anytime soon.

A Global Star Beyond AEW

Since signing with AEW earlier this year, Mone has kept herself busy both inside and outside the company. While fans eagerly anticipate her eventual climb toward AEW’s top women’s title, she’s also been building her brand internationally, defending and winning championships across the independent circuit.

Her growing collection of belts only strengthens her reputation as a worldwide attraction — the kind of wrestler who can walk into any promotion and instantly raise its profile.

With “Nine Belts Mone” now officially part of her legacy, the real question is simple: how long before she makes it ten?

Report: The Good Brothers Officially Return to NJPW, Set for Resurgence Appearance

The speculation is over — Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows, collectively known as The Good Brothers, are back in New Japan Pro Wrestling.

After weeks of buzz and online rumors linking them to NJPW’s Resurgence event, Fightful Select has confirmed that the duo has indeed signed on with the promotion once again. While fans had pegged them as the likely mystery partners for The Young Bucks at Resurgence, the return is now official.

The former WWE and Impact stars have a storied history with NJPW, and their reunion with the promotion has been kept tightly under wraps until their WWE contracts officially came to an end. With the paperwork finalized, the floodgates have opened — and The Good Brothers are wasting no time getting back into the spotlight.

They’ve already begun doing media appearances to promote Resurgence, signaling that NJPW has plans to put them front and center as they ramp up their presence in the U.S. market.

This marks another major return for NJPW’s international expansion, and given The Good Brothers’ popularity and Bullet Club ties, their reappearance could have major implications across both Japanese and American wrestling scenes.

Will we see the Bullet Club OGs reignite old alliances or stir up new rivalries in their latest NJPW run?

Tetsuya Naito to Undergo Eye Surgery & Begin Knee Treatment Following NJPW Exit

After officially wrapping up his storied run with New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestling Dontaku on May 4, Tetsuya Naito has confirmed that he’s shifting focus from in-ring action to recovery and rehabilitation—for now, at least.

In a new interview with Tokyo Sports, Naito revealed he is undergoing surgery on May 7 to address ongoing issues with his left eye. The surgery is the latest in a long line of procedures aimed at correcting his vision, as the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion has dealt with double vision in his right eye for years. He’s hopeful this latest operation will resolve complications that have now surfaced in his left eye.

In addition to eye surgery, Naito is beginning stem cell treatment on his right knee—an area that’s plagued him throughout his career and required consistent maintenance. Given the physical toll of a near two-decade run at the top of NJPW, it’s no surprise that Naito is now prioritizing his health.

While fans have speculated about what’s next for the Los Ingobernables de Japon leader, Naito made it clear that he has no immediate post-retirement plans. “I don’t have anything set,” he said, emphasizing that recovery is the top priority before thinking about the next phase of his life or career.

Naito’s NJPW career saw him become one of the company’s most popular and influential figures. From headlining Wrestle Kingdom to representing NJPW abroad in promotions like TNA and AEW, his legacy spans continents and generations. Whether or not fans see him back in a ring again remains to be seen—but for now, the tranquilo icon is taking a well-earned pause.

Tetsuya Naito Leaving NJPW After Nearly Two Decades – Bushi Also Leaving

In a move that few wrestling fans saw coming, Tetsuya Naito is officially parting ways with New Japan Pro-Wrestling after nearly 20 years with the company. NJPW confirmed the news via a press release, revealing that both sides have mutually agreed not to renew his contract. Naito isn’t leaving alone either—fellow Los Ingobernables de Japon member Bushi is also set to exit the promotion.

Naito will fulfill his remaining obligations with NJPW through May 4. After that, he’s free to explore new opportunities across the wrestling world. While there’s been no announcement yet about his next destination, NJPW made it clear that the split was amicable.

Behind the scenes, it turns out Naito had been operating without a contract for some time. According to Fightful Select, the veteran star and NJPW had been in discussions for a new deal, but ultimately couldn’t come to terms. The report also indicates that several other NJPW talents are in similar contract limbo, working without signed agreements.

Alongside Naito and Bushi, Jeff Cobb is another name expected to depart, with heavy speculation linking him to a WWE debut. This follows a growing trend over the past few years that’s seen some of NJPW’s top stars—like Kazuchika Okada and Will Ospreay—head to AEW or WWE in search of new challenges.

Naito’s departure hits differently, though. Apart from brief stints in CMLL, ROH, and various indies, NJPW has been his wrestling home since the very beginning. A founding member of Los Ingobernables de Japon and one of the promotion’s most beloved and decorated stars, Naito’s exit marks the end of an era. Bushi, while not a day-one NJPW talent, has been a consistent presence for more than a decade and was instrumental in the faction’s identity and growth.

What’s next for the Los Ingobernables de Japon leader? Time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—wherever Naito shows up next, the wrestling world will be watching.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for updates on this developing story and the latest on NJPW’s shifting landscape.

Mina Shirakawa Set to Leave STARDOM, Heading to AEW

Mina Shirakawa’s time in STARDOM is coming to an end, as the former multi-time champion is set to depart the promotion when her contract expires at the end of March. According to Tokyo Sports’ Kimoto Riju, Shirakawa plans to move to the United States, where she has already made a name for herself with appearances in AEW and NJPW.

A Championship Legacy in STARDOM

Since joining STARDOM in 2020, Shirakawa has built an impressive résumé, capturing multiple championships:

  • Wonder of STARDOM Champion
  • Future of STARDOM Champion
  • Goddesses of STARDOM Champion
  • Two-time Artist of STARDOM Champion

Her run in STARDOM has solidified her as a major force in women’s wrestling, and her transition to the U.S. could open even more doors for her career.

AEW Bound

After months of speculation, Mina Shirakawa has confirmed that she is officially joining AEW full-time. The former STARDOM star, who has already been heavily involved in AEW storylines over the past year, announced her decision following her exit from STARDOM.

“I, Shirakawa Mina, will be leaving STARDOM,” she said in a statement. “It is only thanks to the fans who have always believed in me and supported me that I have been able to continue to pursue my dreams and pursue my career as a professional wrestler. Thank you so much. As for the future, I, Shirakawa Mina, will be joining AEW.”

A press conference is expected later this week to announce the signing, which has reportedly been in the works for quite some time.

AEW’s growing women’s division has seen a surge of international talent in recent years, and Shirakawa’s addition could be a significant boost. She has already competed for AEW in the past, and with her connections to NJPW, she could play a key role in AEW’s ongoing relationship with Japanese wrestling promotions.

Shirakawa’s AEW Journey So Far

Although not officially signed until now, Shirakawa has played a key role in AEW’s women’s division. She made her AEW debut nearly a year ago, defeating Anna Jay on an episode of Dynamite in April. From there, she became intertwined with the storyline between “Timeless” Toni Storm and Mariah May, eventually earning two AEW Women’s World Championship opportunities.

Her first title shot came at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2024, where she challenged Storm but was unable to capture the gold. Later in the year, tensions rose between Shirakawa and May, culminating in another title opportunity at Winter Is Coming in December. This time, she faced May for the championship, but once again came up short.

A Rising Star on the Global Stage

Beyond AEW, Shirakawa has made waves in NJPW as well. In January, she competed against Mercedes Moné at Wrestle Dynasty in a high-stakes title match, with both Moné’s NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship and Shirakawa’s RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship on the line. While Shirakawa was unable to secure the victory, Moné expressed interest in a rematch, hinting that their rivalry may not be over.

Though Shirakawa suffered an injury during the Wrestle Dynasty bout, she has since recovered and returned to the ring, setting the stage for what could be an explosive run in AEW.

What’s Next for Shirakawa in AEW?

Now that she’s officially All Elite, Shirakawa’s next move will be closely watched. Could another clash with Mariah May be in her future? Will she cross paths with Toni Storm once again? And with Moné’s arrival in AEW seemingly imminent, a rematch between the two could be on the horizon.

One thing is for sure: Shirakawa is ready to make an impact in AEW, and her journey is just getting started.

Before her AEW debut, Shirakawa is scheduled to appear at NJPW Windy City Riot on April 11, which could serve as a preview of what’s to come. With her talent, charisma, and championship pedigree, she has the potential to be a major player in AEW’s women’s division.

What Is the Queen of Southside Championship That Mercedes Moné Carries?

Mercedes Moné has been making headlines not just for her dominance in AEW and NJPW, but also for the collection of championship gold she proudly displays. Among her titles is the Queen of Southside Championship, a belt that has left many fans scratching their heads. Unlike the TBS Championship or the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship, which are well-known in mainstream wrestling, the Queen of Southside title carries a legacy that some might not be familiar with.

So, what is this championship, and why is Moné still carrying it?

A Championship With Deep Roots

The Queen of Southside Championship originates from Southside Wrestling, a UK-based independent promotion that was active for nearly a decade. In 2019, Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) acquired Southside’s venues and video library when the promotion ceased operations. As part of this transition, Southside’s championship titles were absorbed into RevPro’s lineage.

According to RevPro owner Andy Quildan, the Queen of Southside Championship was officially unified with the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, meaning that the two titles are technically one and the same.

“I’ve never seen a championship belt cause so much confusion and controversy,” Quildan admitted on the Cultaholic Podcast. “The Queen of Southside belt is a legacy title from Southside Wrestling. When RevPro took over, we inherited all their championships, and they were unified with our own.”

Why Does Mercedes Moné Carry It?

Typically, when championships are unified, only the primary title belt is carried going forward—much like what happened with RevPro’s Tag Team and Heavyweight Championships. However, in this case, Moné has personally chosen to continue carrying the Queen of Southside belt alongside the Undisputed British Women’s Championship.

“It’s similar to boxing,” Quildan explained. “Unified, undisputed champions often carry multiple belts. In wrestling, there’s no commission governing each belt separately, so there’s no risk of the titles being split again. If Mercedes Moné decides she only wants to carry the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, she can. Or, she can choose to be covered in gold.”

Given Moné’s history of embracing championship legacies, it’s no surprise she’s opted to carry the belt. Whether it’s a tribute to Southside Wrestling’s history or simply a statement of dominance, one thing is clear—Mercedes Moné is making sure that wherever she goes, she brings gold with her.

H/T to BritWrestling 

WWE Reportedly Targeting Former NJPW Star Jeff Cobb

WWE’s recent wave of free-agent signings could be continuing, as reports indicate that former NEVER Openweight Champion Jeff Cobb might be heading to the company. According to Fightful Select, WWE has expressed interest in signing Cobb, who previously turned down an opportunity with the company in favor of New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).

One source even claimed that Cobb is already listed on WWE’s internal roster, though this has yet to be confirmed. Meanwhile, AEW sources reportedly do not expect Cobb to be heading their way, suggesting that if he leaves NJPW, WWE could be his next destination.

Cobb’s NJPW Future in Question

Cobb is currently set to compete in the New Japan Cup, where he faces former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Tetsuya Naito in the second round. His recent frustrations about his lack of success in NJPW—including underwhelming performances in the G1 Climax—have fueled speculation that he may be on his way out. Given his standing in NJPW’s United Empire faction, previously led by AEW star Will Ospreay, a potential departure would mark a major shift in his career.

The outcome of his upcoming tournament match could provide further clues regarding his future. If Cobb suffers an early elimination, it may signal that NJPW is preparing for his exit.

WWE’s Free Agent Surge Continues

If Cobb does sign with WWE, he would join a growing list of high-profile acquisitions. The company has already brought in Penta, Ricky Saints (formerly Ricky Starks), Jade Cargill, Ethan Page, and Lexis King (formerly Brian Pillman Jr.), along with top international talents like Giulia and Stephanie Vaquer. Additionally, former AEW star Malakai Black has been rumored to be on WWE’s radar, with creative reportedly pitching ideas for his return despite no official confirmation.

With WWE continuing to reshape its roster with fresh talent, Cobb’s potential arrival could add another dynamic powerhouse to the mix. His blend of strength, agility, and technical prowess would make him a strong fit for the company’s heavyweight division.

Stay tuned as more details emerge on Cobb’s future and whether WWE will land yet another major free agent.