Naomichi Marufuji Says GHC National Title Match With KENOH Should Have N-1 Participation Implications

By: Ian McCord

On June 25th, KENOH stepped up as the next challenger for the GHC National Championship after Naomichi Marufuji successfully defended the title against Shuji Kondo at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s LEGACY RISE 2026 in Korakuen Hall.

KENOH appeared after the match, declaring himself as the next challenger for the title. KENOH told Marufuji that he can’t reach the top by always being on defense, telling the champion he needs to take action and be on the offense.

From KENOH:

“Congratulations on the title defense, Marufuji. There’s one thing on my mind. You defended the National title again today. Marufuji, you’re only thinking about defending it, aren’t you? If all you think about is defending it, that belt won’t shine at all. Pro Wrestling NOAH—there’s no denying that the one who’s protected it all this time is none other than Naomichi Marufuji. But here’s the thing—you can’t reach the top of the pro-wrestling world just by defending it! Don’t just defend that belt—go on the offensive. I’ve taken action. Have you done anything? Can you really climb higher by just putting on a show, refusing to put your own money on the line, and thinking only about defense? The next challenger for the National title is me—KENOH —the one who attacks.”

After the event, Marufuji took to the offensive via social media, suggesting that the loser of the title match should not be allowed to compete in this year’s N-1 Victory robin tournament.

From Naomichi Marufuji via X:

“KENOH, you keep nagging me to attack, so how about we both go on the offensive? Whoever loses this match won’t be allowed to compete in N-1. That’s a promise.”

KENOH didn’t seem to like the idea, saying that win or lose he wants to compete in this year’s N-1. He also stated that regardless of the stipulation he will win the match against Marufuji.

From KENOH via X:

“I think that approach is wrong. If the fighters competing for the title don’t participate in N-1, the event won’t be exciting. I want to compete in N-1 whether I win or lose. I’ll win, though. Let’s put on a show that everyone will enjoy!”

(English Translations via DeepL)

It is unclear if the stipulation will become official, regardless, Naomichi Marufuji and KENOH will battle over the GHC National Championship at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s HaRENO Presents SUMMER EPIC 2026 on July 18th in Osaka.

Image Credit: Pro Wrestling NOAH