On the final night of this years G1 Climax, fans got a very special treat. Katsuyori Shibata wrestled his first match since being forced into early retirement in 2017. It was a grappling showcase with Zack Sabre Jr that only went five minutes, but it was a magical moment all the same.
Shibata would take a simple back bump after the match, and said next time would be a proper match. Tonight, he has promised fans an announcement – which has everyone on the edge of their seats. Right in Ryogoku Sumo Hall he had his last match, and now he’s back with news.
Katsuyori Shibata To Wrestle His First Match In Almost Five Years On January 4th
He was very emotional hitting the ring, and had an announcement for January 4th. HE HAS A MATCH! THE WRESTLER WILL WRESTLE IN TOKYO DOME! We don’t need many words from him for major impact. This will be his first proper match since 2017, but he has kept in-ring shape during his training of the likes of Karl Fredericks and Clark Connors in NJPW Strong. Now, he’s finally back.
This is just another big return over the last few years. Edge, Christian Cage, & Bryan Danielson were all retired before making big returns, and everyone was hoping that Shibata would join this list – and now that dream has come true. When he retired, a banner saying “We Will Wait For You” was hung in Korakuen Hall. Fans never gave up hope, and now he’s coming back.
There is no word on who he will face, or if it will even be a singles match. One of his biggest potential opponents in KENTA already seems to be set up for Hiroshi Tanahashi. Fans wouldn’t be opposed to more with him & Zack Sabre Jr.
We will keep you updated on who Shibata will face in his massive return match. Who do you hope to see? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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