At the King of Pro-Wrestling 2026 event held at Ryogoku Kokugikan, Kenny Omega made a surprise return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), attacking reigning IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Yota Tsuji and challenger Boltin Oleg. Yahoo!ニュース reported that the event, which drew an audience of 6,422, concluded with Omega issuing a direct challenge for a three-way match at the November 3 Hiroshima Sun Plaza show.
Kenny Omega’s Return and Attack on Tsuji
Following a 35-minute main event where Yota Tsuji successfully defended his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship against G1 Climax winner Ryohei Oiwa, the arena lights dimmed to reveal a video message from Omega. During the broadcast, Omega criticized Tsuji for his reluctance to compete in AEW’s "Forbidden Door" event, questioning his legitimacy as a "world" champion.
IWGP Heavyweight champion Yota Tsuji has said it out loud: AEW vs. NJPW at the Tokyo Dome!!! Kenny Omega's return has changed the conversation. For Tsuji, it was confirmation of something bigger: "When I think about the meaning behind Kenny coming here, it shows he can't help… pic.twitter.com/qibo7wdzmJ”
As Boltin Oleg entered the ring to stake his own claim to the title, Omega appeared in person, assaulting both wrestlers. Omega delivered a Dragon Suplex to Oleg and subsequently hit Tsuji with a V-Trigger and his signature "One-Winged Angel" finisher. Omega later stated to reporters that his decision to return was fueled by his recent loss at Wembley Stadium and a desire to reclaim a top-tier championship in his "second home" of Japan.
The Proposed Three-Way Match in Hiroshima
Omega has formally proposed a three-way championship match against Tsuji and Oleg for the November 3 event in Hiroshima. While Tsuji initially rejected the idea of a title match via video letter, Omega suggested that if the champion remains resistant to a title defense, he is willing to make the match a non-title contest.
"If Yota Tsuji really hates it that much, it can be a non-title match," Omega said in comments provided to the press. "I am absolutely going to win. I’m not worried about it at all. I will become the champion in one or two matches."
Event Results at Ryogoku Kokugikan
The October 12 card featured several championship bouts alongside the main event, according to official results:
- IWGP Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji defeated Ryohei Oiwa.
- IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship: YOH defeated Robbie Eagles.
- IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Gabe Kidd defeated Shota Umino.
- NEVER Openweight Championship: Wolf Airon defeated Fujita Kosei.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Kenny Omega choose to target Yota Tsuji?
Omega stated that he was motivated by a desire to find his "true self" following a loss in the AEW World Heavyweight Championship match at Wembley Stadium. He also expressed frustration with previous interactions between AEW and NJPW, specifically citing comments from Tsuji regarding the fairness of talent exchanges between the two organizations.
What is the status of the proposed match for November 3?
As of the conclusion of the Ryogoku event, the three-way match remains a proposal from Omega. The wrestler noted that he intends to discuss the logistics of the match with NJPW management, including president Hiroshi Tanahashi, before a final decision is announced.
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