Go Shiozaki Admits To Be Worried About His In-Ring Return After Being Out For Six Months

By: Lewis Carlan

Back on Jan. 13th 2025, Go Shiozaki was defeated by Mohammed Yone in Yokohama in a match that would be his last for quite some time. Shiozaki had announced that he would be stepping away from competing in Pro Wrestling NOAH to have double knee surgery.

Fast forward to July 19th 2025 as NOAH presented its “New Departure Day 1” event at Korakuen Hall. During the course of the event, Shiozaki appeared and announced that he will being making his long awaited in-ring return in August. NOAH confirmed shortly afterwards that Shiozaki would return on Aug. 11 against Harutoki with the winner earning a spot in the upcoming N-1 Victory 2025 tournament.

Image Credit: Pro Wrestling NOAH

While Shiozaki was recovering from his surgery, OZAWA and Team 2000x took center stage ushering in a new era of NOAH that grew in popularity with fans and resulted in higher attendance.

While Shiozaki is well aware of the new style that has captured the attention of fans all over Japan, he doesn’t not intend to change the Puroresu style that has made him a superstar. He feels there are people who still enjoy the old style of NOAH which is why he won’t adapt.

In a new interview currently available on the NOAH official website, Shiozaki was asked about the rising popularity of NOAH led by OZAWA and gave his thoughts.

From Go Shiozaki:

“Honestly, I think it’s a good thing, and I’m happy about it. The current style of matches seems to resonate with the fans today. However, I have no intention of conforming to the current style. There are people who still love the old NOAH. By returning, I hope to create a synergistic effect and help make the organization even bigger.”

Shiozaki was asked how he is feeling after being away from in-ring competition for over six months. Shiozaki admitted he is a bit worried about how will be able to move during his Aug. 11 return to the ring.

From Go Shiozaki:

“For wrestlers, the knee is the next most important injury after the neck. I’m a little scared if I injure that. To be honest, I’m worried about whether I’ll be able to move properly, but I’ll just trust my doctor and myself and face the day. I want to have a match and erase any worries I might have.”

On Aug. 11, Shiozaki will face Harutoki and have that opportunity to hopefully remove any doubts he has in his mind about his first match in over six months.

Go Shiozaki has been a superstar for NOAH since 2004 and he can expect the fans to be solidly behind him on Aug. 11.