We are just a few short days away from the first major tournament of the year for New Japan Pro Wrestling. March will once again play host to the New Japan Cup, with a massive 48 man field announced for the tournament. However, NJPW might have been a bit too eager in announcing two injured names for the tournament – as both Kota Ibushi & Hiroyoshi Tenzan have been removed from the field.
Kota Ibushi & Hiroyoshi Tenzan Are Out Of The New Japan Cup
Kota Ibushi is the big name here, being a former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion – and having missed Wrestle Kingdom. He was injured after a missed Phoenix Splash during the G1 Climax 2021 finals against Kazuchika Okada – suffering a broken wrist in the process.
His announcement for the New Japan Cup & 50th Anniversary Show had fans excited – but after being assessed once again, Ibushi is not cleared to compete. NJPW would issue the following statement through NJPW1972.com.
“Kota Ibushi has been diligently preparing for a scheduled return on March 1 at the Nippon Budokan. However, after careful consultation with trainers, medical staff and the NJPW medical committee, and based on the results of a final medical evaluation, the difficult decision has been made to delay Ibushi’s return, and remove him from Wednesday’s Anniversary card. The following change has been made to the event.”
Meanwhile, Tenzan is still recovering from a knee injury suffered during the New Years Golden Series tour – and fans didn’t expect him to be back until April. His removal was not a shock. The bigger blow is this legend missing the 50th anniversary show.
Changes Will Push Great-O-Khan Right To The Second Round
The removal of Kota Ibushi takes away the first round match that would have seen Great-O-Khan wrestle Ibushi. Instead of a replacement opponent, Great-O-Khan now receives a first round bye – and will meet Taiji Ishimori in the second round. Ishimori had already been selected to have a first round bye.
Hiroyoshi Tenzan had been set to move right to the second round, and now the winner of Taichi & Toru Yano will move directly to the third round. This raises the stake of their match massively.
Do you expect Ibushi to be back for the G1 Climax? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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