"Doesn't really come off like a star" - Konnan gets brutally honest about top AEW champion

Every championship in AEW is one of a kind. While the AEW World Title is apparently the most important accolade in the company, the AEW International Championship holds immense value too.

The International Championship is currently held by 29-year-old Japanese star, Konosuke Takeshita. He won it at WrestleDream a few weeks ago by defeating previous champion Will Ospreay and Ricochet in a Three-way match. His reign so far has been satisfactory. The Alpha has defended the title many times and was successful in every attempt. Interestingly, former WCW star Konnan is not a huge fan of his.

On a recent appearance on K100, the Cuban-born American criticized the Don Callis Family member, following his Full Gear triumph. Furthermore, he stated that the champion does not have a 'star' factor.

"Takeshita won. I guess they're trying to push him, but he doesn't really come off like a star," said Konnan. [H/T: Wrestling Inc.]

---

Shinsuke Nakamura is seemingly AEW star Konosuke Takeshita's mentor

Konosuke Takeshita competed in the 2024 G1 Climax. He finished second in his block as he defeated prominent names such as Ren Narita, El Phantasmo, Henare, and more. In one of the post-match interviews, The Alpha revealed that he has the blessings of his mentor, who resides in the USA.

While he didn't mention his mentor's name, fans are quite certain that it is none other than the King of Strong Style, Shinsuke Nakamura.

"I have a mentor in America. That mentor has entrusted me with leading the way in the world of professional wrestling. In fact, he's entrusted me with the strong style. Who is that mentor? I can't tell you yet. Yaaaao!" said Konosuke Takeshita.

Takeshita made his All Elite Wrestling debut in 2021. He is best known for his time in DDT Pro-Wrestling, where he won the Ironman Heavymetalweight Championship four times.