Yuki Iino Explains Why He Decided To Leave DDT Pro-Wrestling and Join Pro Wrestling NOAH

By: Lewis Carlan

A press conference was held today to announce that long time DDT Pro-Wrestling competitor Yuki Iino will be leaving the promotion to join Pro Wrestling NOAH on a full time basis.

Joining Iino at the press conference was CyberFight Vice President Sanshiro Takagi representing DDT Pro and CyberFight Vice President Naomichi Marufuji representing NOAH.

Photo Credit: DDT Pro-Wrestling

Iino explained why he decided to leave DDT Pro-Wrestling and join Pro Wrestling NOAH:

“While competing in NOAH as “Passion MAX,” I began to feel that I wanted to team up with Mr. Soya, and I also wanted to deliver even more powerful pro wrestling in NOAH, so I made that proposal to DDT. Mr. Takagi told me, “Do whatever you want.” Since I’ll be stepping into the NOAH ring, I intend to aim for the GHC Heavyweight Championship belt. From now on, I plan to give it my all in NOAH, so I ask for your continued support.”

Sanshiro Takagi and Naomichi Marufuji both weighed in on the situation as well during the press confereence.

From Sanshiro Takagi:

“I know this may come as a surprise to some, but I received a proposal from Iino. I actually met him through an introduction from one of his seniors. Ever since then, he’s been saying he wants to put on intense heavyweight matches. While DDT does have a heavyweight division, this time he expressed a desire to compete in even more intense matches in NOAH. I felt it was important to respect his wishes. I believe this is the first time a transfer has taken place within the CyberFight group. I hope this helps build excitement not only in the pro-wrestling world but also within CyberFight itself. I’ve even challenged Iino, telling him, “If you’re going to do this, go for the top.” Personally, I want him to take on this new challenge. I believe he’ll give it his all and put everything on the line. Since we’re part of the same group, he might return as Yuki Iino of NOAH—or he might not. Really, give it your all!”

From Naomichi Marufuji:

“Upon hearing the proposal from Mr. Takagi and Mr. Iino, NOAH saw no reason to refuse. I’ve watched them not only during matches but also during practice, and I have high hopes for them. I believe they bring a different style than NOAH’s wrestlers, and I hope they’ll inspire us as well. I want them to feel that this move was the right decision. Furthermore, I expect we’ll have future exchanges with DDT, and I hope we can all work together to make CyberFight a huge success.”

Yuki Iino issued a statement on X and indicated that he has had so many wonderful experiences with DDT and that they have always taken good care of time. He also stated that he no longer going to be a member of the DDT Pro faction Strange Love Connection.

From Yuki Iino:

Thank you all for coming to this early-morning press conference today! 🙇‍♂️I’ve had so many wonderful experiences at DDT, and they’ve truly taken care of me since my debut! I’m leaving SLC, but please continue to support SLC! Thank you, SLC! From now on, I’ll be giving it my all as a member of NOAH!! Please support Yuki Iino, who’s bursting with passion!

Yuki Iino will finish his DDT Pro Wrestling contract on November 3rd and will transfer to Pro Wrestling NOAH afterwards. His last match in DDT Pro will be on November 3rd at Ryogoku Sumo Hall.

(All English quote translations via Deepl.com)