Wrestling fans around the world were treated to a pleasant surprise when the Japanese veteran, Kota Ibushi, was announced to be participating in the highly successful WWE Cruiserweight Classic tournament! And boy, did he deliver! Eliminated only by the soon to be crowned as champ, T.J. Perkins, there were rumours recently that Kota might actually sign a full term contract with the WWE.
In the past, Ibushi has had memorable matches against current WWE NXT superstar Shinsuke Nakamura and the prospect of the rivalry being rekindled in the WWE captivates the imaginations of WWE fans worldwide.
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Him penning a deal with the WWE seemed certain as an announcement was made that Ibushi will be teaming up with compatriot Hideo Itami in WWE’s 2016 NXT Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. However, to the dismay of the fans, Ibushi soon closed any doors leading to a permanent role in the U.S. based wrestling company.
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Talking to Tokyo Sports, he claimed that the chances of him joining WWE on a full-time contract are ‘zero’. He finally put all rumours to rest by claiming that this is a one-off deal, but did keep himself open to similar offers by the company.
Ibushi is an experienced and decorated pro wrestler. At the age of 34, he has already earned a name for himself all around the world by competing in promotions such as DDT Pro Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) and Dragondoor.
He is looked up to by many new & up-comers in the Japanese wrestling culture also hoped that these short-term deals could perhaps benefit the next generation of Japanese wrestlers in a bid to making a career in the WWE.
Ibushi's in ring talent has powered him to winning several accolades including being ranked as #40 in the PWI 500 in 2015. He has also been the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion thrice in the NJPW and has won numerous championships in other promotions as well.
The wrestling business owned by Vince Kennedy McMahon has featured Japanese wrestlers in the past, however, living short of their potential. He will, however, be teaming up with one of the brightest sparks in the NXT & we can all hope to see some more magical moments from this decorated wrestler.
Let's hope Ibushi changes his mind and comes on board! We shall keep you posted on any new updates that come through about this situation, stay tuned!
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