Since the summer of 2020, there’s been a prize in the midcard of New Japan Pro Wrestling. Kazuchika Okada would help to create the King of Pro Wrestling provisional championship – a belt that was designed to be defended in a variety of gimmick matches. Namely help by Toru Yano for 2020 & 2021, the belt would reach new heights in 2022 with former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Shingo Takagi elevating it with excellent matches with El Phantasmo & Taichi. Previously represented by a trophy, this will change in 2023.
The KOPW Championship Will Get A Belt In 2023
A report from NJPW1972.com would reveal that starting at Wrestle Kingdom 17 on January 4th, the KOPW Championship will be represented with a championship belt. The report would state the following.
“Yet the trophy that represents the KOPW holder status has not always been treated with prestige an respect! From spray paintings to utter demolition and DIY recreation, it’s fair to say that the KOPW holder was in need of something longer lasting. From 2023, the holder will have the KOPW Championship belt!
A New Japan Ranbo on January 4 will determine who qualifies to be the first holder of this new belt. Who will emerge as its first holder, and what happens to KOPW in 2023?”
Shingo Takagi would end 2022 as champion, after defending against Taichi at JTO 50th Anniversary For TAKATaichi Together ~ Last TAKATaichi in a Last Man Standing Lumberjack match – winning in 29:39 by KO.
No Names Are Currently Announced For Battle Royale At Wrestle Kingdom 17
Right now, the New Japan Ranbo is set to air as part of the pre-show for Wrestle Kingdom 17, with no names currently announced. Shingo Takagi & Taichi have not found roles on the main card of Wrestle Kingdom 17, nor have the likes of Toru Yano, Tomohiro Ishii and more. We can expect a solid Battle Royale, and hopefully more quality matches over this belt in 2023.
Who will leave Wrestle Kingdom 17 with the new KOPW Championship? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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