By: James Carlin
One Night Dream on July 15th at Korakuen Hall will see a no time-limit “Dangerous, Forbidden Reunion” as AJPW’s Ace Kento Miyahara will take on his senior Katsuhiko Nakajima, for the first time in a decade and a half. During this time, both men have changed greatly, and Nakajima’s early defection of KONGO and separation from AXIZ partner Go Shiozaki in the lead-up to the event has made people wonder who will come out on top in an all-important interpromotional match between two titans of puroresu.
When speaking to Pro-Wrestling NOAH, Nakajima did not mince his words when talking about his junior.
–At the press conference just a few minutes ago, Miyahara gave you a hard shot . . .
Katsuhiko Nakajima: My jaw still hurts. He got me… it’s okay. There were a few provocations during the press conference. I suggested an unlimited time limit match, so we can enjoy it as
much as he wants. You can do because it’s… unlimited.
–Do you have any anger at your former juniors?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: Anger… well, I guess it’s a little clearer in a good way. It’s easier for me.
–Why did you consider wrestling Miyahara at this time of the year?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: Kento Miyahara entered NOAH’s ring in February; suddenly, he appeared in the ring, something that hadn’t happened before. If I had to put it more simply, I’d say he was an eyesore.
–Is there a reason why you chose Korakuen Hall as the venue?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: Well, I guess it’s all about timing. Speaking of Korakuen, it was a long time ago, but Kensuke Office’s Korakuen Hall event was held on February 11th every year, and it was a sacred place for Kensuke Office. We will have a single event this time, so I think we will be able to talk about it completely.
–Are there any expectations you have for this match?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: In a word, he’s the Kento I don’t know. It’s been more than ten years, right? How many years ago was it? So it’s different from then, isn’t it? It was when I was in
Kensuke Office, so that’s the Kento I know.
–What was your impression of Miyahara during his time in Kensuke Office?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: He was a hard worker, very particular about what he did, had his own view of the world, and of course he was very honest. He was young. He was a wonderful junior.
–Miyahara said that Nakajima is “not good” at the game.
Katsuhiko Nakajima: I wonder what that means. I don’t know, but it’s a feeling thing. But we’re close in age, so I don’t think he’s kind or anything. I had to be strict in practice. I wanted him to be strong. I think I was very strict during training.
–At the press conference, Miyahara made some comments to Nakajima from above.
Katsuhiko Nakajima: He must have that much confidence. That’s why he’s the one leading All Japan right now, right? I have my own desire to protect NOAH, and he has his own desire to
protect All Japan, so in that sense I’m looking forward to it, and I think the fans are also looking forward to it because they can’t imagine it.”
–What are your thoughts on your first match with Miyahara after a decade and a half?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: He’s been at the top of the game for a long time, and I think that kind of thing, that experience, gives him a lot of confidence. But I’m looking forward to seeing what
happens when I break that confidence in this singles match. I’m thinking of taking a delicious bite out of Kento Miyahara, who is said to be the best.
–Is there anyone you could think of who would like to see this fight?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: I want someone to see it… is that what you want me to say? (Laughs.) That’s all I can think of… (Laughs.) But I don’t want to put it out there. I don’t think I’m going to mention that person’s name too much.
–Thank you very much. Finally, could you give a message to your fans?
Katsuhiko Nakajima: On July 15th at Korakuen Hall, me and Kento Miyahara, who I don’t know anymore, will go head-to-head in an unlimited time limit one-on-one match. Watch closely.
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No Time Limit, Special Singles: Katsuhiko Nakajima (NOAH) vs. Kento Miyahara (AJPW)
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Jimmy Yang, Super Crazy & Stallion Rogers vs. Anthony Greene, YO-HEY & Tadasuke
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Interview courtesy of Pro-Wrestling NOAH Overseas PR
Date:
July 12, 2023
Category:
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