Kouga Declares That He Is NOAH at N-1 VICTORY 2026 Press Conference

By: Ian McCord

Kouga, formerly known as TEAM 2000X’s Owadasan, has made his return to Japan after a year long excursion competing for PROGRESS Wrestling to participate in NOAH’s N-1 VICTORY 2026.

On September 11th, Pro Wrestling NOAH held an N-1 VICTORY press conference ahead of the tournament’s opening night on September 12th.

During the press conference, Kouga reintroduced himself and reminded the world that, at one point, NOAH was considered the best in the business based on the quality of matches that were taking place aboard the Ark. Kouga went on to say that he intends to bring that reputation back to the promotion before declaring that he is NOAH.

From Kouga:

“Back after a year away — I’m Kouga. There was a time when NOAH was the best in the business on match quality alone. That’s what made me want to join. Tomorrow, I’m bringing that back. Just expect a good match from me. I am NOAH.”

Prior to Kouga’s excursion to the UK, he was a valued member of the heel faction TEAM 2000X. In August of 2025, he faced OZAWA in a losing effort in his last match for NOAH before heading off on his voyage.

After Kouga made no mention of his past in TEAM 2000X at the press conference, OZAWA, who is set to face his former stablemate at the N-1 opener, took to social media to question if his dear friend Owadasan had lost his memory.

From OZAWA via X:

“Owadasan may have lost his memory.”

(English Translation via DeepL)

OZAWA will have the opportunity to be properly reintroduced to Kouga on September 12th, when the two face off in the main event of the N-1 VICTORY 2026 opener at Korakuen Hall.

Image Credit: Pro Wrestling NOAH