KENOH Takes Blame For Kazuchika Okada’s Departure From NJPW

By: Lewis Carlan

Back on January 19th, the news that sent shockwaves throughout the world of professional wrestling was the announcement that Kazuchika Okada had decided to leave the company he had become synonymous with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. His tenure with NJPW officially ended on January 31st but freelancer Okada is scheduled to compete against his long time rival & ally Hiroshi Tanahashi on February 11 at The New Beginning In Osaka. Okada is also expected to appear at NJPW’s The New Beginning In Sapporo on February 23 & 24th.

With Kazuchika Okada no longer part of the NJPW roster, an unlikely individual has taken the blame for Okada’s departure. While speaking with Tokyo Sports, Pro Wrestling NOAH superstar and current GHC Heavyweight Champion KENOH feels he is at fault for Okada walking away from NJPW and seeking employment overseas.

KENOH stated that because NOAH was unable to compete directly with NJPW it made Okada feel like there was nothing left for him to do in Japan. KENOH stated that without competition nothing evolves and things start to stagnate. He feels this is the reason why Okada had decided to leave NJPW. KENOH proceeded to apologize to New Japan as well as the wrestling world, indicating that it was his fault for Okada’s exit as NOAH hasn’t been able to provide NJPW with real competition. KENOH claimed to be frustrated with the entire situation.

Kenoh apologised for Okada’s decision to quit NJPW

“As NOAH couldn't become a contender, NJ’s ace turned his focus abroad

“This shows the feeling of stagnation among NJ’s top guys. I apologise to the pro wres world & NJ

“I’ll lift NOAH up & that’ll stop NJ’s guys from leaving” pic.twitter.com/FQyM4JXVaP

— Pro Wrestling NOAH Global (@noahglobal) February 1, 2024

KENOH will be defending his GHC Heavyweight Championship on February 4th against challenger El Hijo de Dr Wagner Jr in Sendai. He has indicated that he can’t afford to lose the title as he feels he is the one to raise up NOAH to the next level and challenge the dominance of NJPW. KENOH believes this needs to be done not just for NOAH but for the entire world of professional wrestling. By doing so, he is certain this will prevent other New Japan stars from departing the company in the future. KENOH’s desire to lift up NOAH to new heights can begin on February 4th, he first needs to prevail over El Hijo de Dr Wagner Jr. and hold on to the GHC Heavyweight Championship.

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