By: Sonal Lad
When it comes to NJPW’s developmental system of young lions, it has seen some huge stars born. Back in 2017, Shota Umino made his debut as one of the newest NJPW Young Lions.
Starting with a reputation as the son of referee Red Shoes Unno, Shota Umino slowly gained attention for his rivalry with fellow young lion Ren Narita. In the dojo, the two were constantly battling for supremacy but with two completely different styles. Even under the constraints of the basic offense, Shota always utilized his size and strength more compared to his peers.
Shota Umino vs Ren Narita#NJPWWorld Watch now▶︎https://t.co/Tj7UBJ4PjP #njcup pic.twitter.com/pHTPYqitbV
— njpwworld (@njpwworld) March 18, 2018
The moment many people took notice was in 2019. Jon Moxley took the Young Lion under his wing after teaming with him in a tag match. Moxley really took a shine to who he called “Shooter.” Even after Shota started his excursion in 2019 in the UK, he still appeared alongside Moxley in AEW. Shota even took on the name “Shooter,” even having it on his ring gear.
Jon Moxley wants in the G1!
Jon Moxley has apparently adopted Shota Umino as his personal Young Lion!
There may not be much room for discussion on either matter!
Watch: https://t.co/F80uOQD5fB #g129 #njdominion pic.twitter.com/gORWhhysQH— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) June 10, 2019
Although making marks in AEW, Shota’s main excursion was based in the UK. Despite keeping the name “Shooter” during his excursion, Shota Umino has cemented an identity of his own in the UK. His unique bright pink and white gear cement that Shota is a true babyface. He always draws cheers from the crowds during matches across the country.
Sonal Lad
In particular, his match against Will Ospreay at Royal Quest II showed that Shota had truly grown during his time in the UK. Despite still being inexperienced compared to Ospreay, he held his own and showed development in his skillset and character.
He seems to have the same determination as his young lion days. It isn’t surprising that Umino has been compared to a young Hiroshi Tanahashi. With the similarities in his traditional Japanese style and the way crowds are drawn to him, many believe he is a future IWGP Heavyweight Champion.
On the November 5 Autumn Battle show, Shota finally returned from his excursion under the nickname “Roughneck” and challenged Will Ospreay for the IWGP United States Championship. With their match set for Historic X-Over on November 20, it will be Shota’s time to prove how much he’s grown.
.@Shooter_us "Shooter!!!!!!!"
Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CcdQ1XrpWA#NJPW #njautumn #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/xvvea1zNLC
— njpwworld (@njpwworld) November 5, 2022
At only 25 years old, Shota Umino has already cemented his popularity with fans worldwide. In the next few months, he will only continue to grow. He could become a driving force in guiding the next generation of New Japan talent.
Date:
November 7, 2022
Category:
The Midcard