Shota Umino: It Is A Dream To Face Jon Moxley As IWGP US Champion At The Tokyo Dome

When he first came to New Japan Pro-Wrestling in 2019, Jon Moxley took Shota Umino under his wing. 

Since then, Shota has grown into his own man, but remains tied to Moxley as his protege. At NJPW Power Struggle, Shota will look to follow in Moxley’s footsteps by winning the IWGP United States Championship, which is currently held by Will Ospreay. 

Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Shota commented on potentially working against Moxley. 

“When we first met, he had the US heavy belt around his waist, and I have a lot of feelings about it. It is one of my dreams to fight Moxley as a champion. If I could do it on the Tokyo Dome stage, I think it would be a good plan for me personally,” said Shota. 

Moxley will also be in action at NJPW Power Struggle, taking on The Great-O-Khan. 

Ospreay rebranded the IWGP US Title to the IWGP UK Title, and Shota looks to restore the original name should he win the title. 

“I think Osprey is a wonderful wrestler who stands out from the crowd in every way, but I cannot allow New Japan to change what they have created without permission. If the company can’t stop it, I’ll take the initiative and stop it, and return it to the original title of US Heavy,” he said.

Fans can check out the lineup for NJPW Power Struggle by clicking here. 

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