In the main event of NJPW “DESTRUCTION in RYOGOKU” held at Tokyo’s Ryogoku Sumo Hall, SANADA accomplished a monumental feat by reclaiming the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship from his former L.I.J tag partner, EVIL who helf the belt hostage. This thrilling victory came in the midst of a chaotic Lumberjack Match, where the ring was surrounded by members of Just 5 Guys and HOUSE OF TORTURE. SANADA secured the win by pinning the ‘King of Darkness’ (28:01), utilizing the Deadfall following a powerful Shining Wizard, successfully defending his title (V4).
In a touching moment following the match, an evidently emotional SANADA was presented with the prestigious IWGP belt by his mentor, Keiji Muto who was at ring side doing guest commentary.
To add to the excitement of the evening, the winner of G1 Climax 33, Tetsuya Naito, made a surprise appearance in the ring. He announced his intention to challenge SANADA for the IWGP World Heavyweight Title at “WRESTLE KINGDOM 18 in Tokyo Dome” scheduled for January 4, 2024, setting the stage for what promises to be an epic showdown.
The following day at a press conference it was made official, “WRESTLE KINGDOM 18 in Tokyo Dome” Main Event will be IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Match: SANADA (C) vs Tetsuya Naito (G1 ClIMAX 33 Winner)