Shota Umino Declares War on IWGP Champion Jon Moxley

By: R. Faliani

After Jon Moxley’s victory on Wrestling Dontaku over Ren Narita, his former protege Shota Umino confronted the IWGP World Champion on the road to their title match for New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Resurgence event next week, which promises to be the place for Umino’s own resurgence as the guy to carry the flag for New Japan. With House of Torture out of the title picture, this remains a war between Umino and Moxley.

【新日本】海野翔太　モクスリーとの師弟対決でIWGP世界王座奪回へ「正面から超えてやるよ」｜東スポWEB #njpwhttps://t.co/KEMPEzl6H7

— 東スポ　プロレス格闘技担当 (@tospo_battle) May 4, 2024

Right after Moxley defeated Narita, the years of going as master and protege went flying out the window because Umino was no longer a young boy at the hands of Mox, but his own man who is looking to write his name in history. Umino himself helped Moxley retain the title by assisting him against the House of Torture which was really getting on the champion’s nerves and was pushing for Narita’s victory over anything. The match ended and Umino got into the ring and gave Mox a handshake that was rejected by the champion.

Based on the report from Tokyo Sports, Umino spoke on Moxley and he said something that, if true, could push the boundaries of what Umino is even capable of:

“I’m going to beat you head-on, fair and square. I respect the blood, sweat, and tears you left for New Japan. I respect your greatness as a champion and everything about you. But I can’t stay a disciple forever. I will surpass you and become the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, to change New Japan.”

If Umino defeats Moxley and becomes the first Musketeer to win the IWGP World Title, he’ll have the pressure of living up to the hype and living up to NJPW’s expectations of him. This will be Umino’s final test against Moxley and should be a turning point in his career win or lose.