AJPW Removes Cyrus From Champion Carnival 2026 Tournament, Cites Reasoning For Decision

By: Lewis Carlan

The All Japan Pro-Wrestling Champion Carnival 2026 is set to kick off on April 12th but one previously confirmed participant has been pulled from the tournament.

AJPW announced today that Cyrus will no longer be participating in the prestigious tournament and released an official statement regarding the situation.

According to AJPW, they had confirmed the tournament schedule, flight, accommodations and compensation with Cyrus.

After announcing his participation in Champion Carnival 2026, AJPW has claimed they have been unable to get into contact with Cyrus. Following flight information request through his agency, AJPW learned Cyrus had cancelled the scheduled flight to Japan without any prior notification.

AJPW felt they had no choice but to remove Cyrus from the tournament.

A replacement for Cyrus is expected to be revealed at a press conference to be held tomorrow.

This is the second year in a row Cyrus has been pulled from the Champion Carnival tournament. Last year, he was unable to compete in the Champion Carnival 2025 tournament due to health issues after being announced as a participant.