New Japan Establishes IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship

Will Ospreay, Jon Moxley and David Finlay will compete for the new IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship at Wrestle Kingdom 18.

By: James Carlin

After Power Struggle saw David Finlay destroy both of Will Ospreay‘s United States and United Kingdom championships, the decision was made by New Japan Pro-Wrestling to create a new title, named the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship.

Although some have been looking and hoping for the return of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship, it seems that NJPW’s beloved “White Belt” will stay inactive moving forward. Chairman Naoki Sugabayashi mentions that there was discussions of bringing back the intercontinental title, but the decision was made to use the “global” name, as it was more fitting for New Japan’s mission moving forward, saying: “NJPW is working to ensure that 2024 sees our presence grow not just in the UK and the US, but throughout all of Europe, the rest of Asia and Oceania.” h/t njpw1972.com

The world comes to fight the World Heavyweight Champion
The Global Heavyweight Champion goes to fight the world.
Perfect distinction for Moxley, @willospreay and @thedavidfinlay January 4
世界中の選手が世界ヘビー級王座を狙う。
グローバルチャンピオン=全世界に挑む。#njwk18 https://t.co/9PwoYsQb8s

— chris charlton (@reasonjp) December 11, 2023

As New Japan Pro-Wrestling continues to hold events in multiple different countries around the world, the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship looks to solidify all international bargains under one concise title – no more “IWGP United States” or “IWGP United Kingdom” designations – they will all be represented under the newly minted championship.