Katsuyori Shibata: There’s No Place For Me In NJPW, I Want To Finish My Career In AEW

Katsuyori Shibata comments on his standing in AEW. 

Katsuyori Shibata suffered what was thought to be a career-ending subdural hematoma in 2017 after a bout with Kazuchika Okada. Shibata would eventually return to the ring in 2021 for an exhibition match and then take on a more active schedule in AEW in 2022. 

Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Shibata commented on his health and working for AEW as opposed to NJPW. 

“I can’t work as an affiliated fighter. I guess that (New Japan’s decision) is not wrong. But if there is no place for me, then there is no reason for me to be here. I’ve regained a lot of my senses after competing in AEW, and I feel like I want to finish my career here,” he said.

When asked about his health, Shibata said, “I’ve been checked by a doctor, and I’ve given him a medical certificate. If I don’t clear it, I can’t compete.”

Shibata was officially announced as being All Elite on December 23. 

Shibata has also confirmed that he is not Robocop.