TNT Championship Match Set for AEW Collision: Daniel Garcia Faces Mentor Katsuyori Shibata

One Big Thing

AEW CEO Tony Khan has announced a TNT Championship match for Saturday’s Collision, featuring champion Daniel Garcia defending against his mentor Katsuyori Shibata, despite weather challenges in Atlanta.

Why It Matters

This match marks a significant moment in AEW programming, bringing together two technical wrestling specialists in a mentor-versus-student scenario. The bout adds prestige to the TNT Championship and continues Garcia’s momentum as champion.

Key Details

• Garcia has held the TNT Championship for 49 days since defeating Jack Perry at Full Gear
• This will be Garcia’s second title defense following last week’s match against Mark Briscoe
• Shibata and Garcia previously faced off in July 2023 for the ROH Pure Championship
• The match comes after Shibata’s recent appearances at Wrestle Kingdom and Wrestle Dynasty

By The Numbers

• 49: Days of Daniel Garcia’s TNT Championship reign
• 1: Previous one-on-one match between Garcia and Shibata
• 2: Title defenses for Garcia since winning the championship

Direct Quote

“Mannn I’m from Buffalo this snow can’t stop me. You know Collision ain’t Collision without the TNT Champ,” Garcia posted on social media, addressing concerns about weather-related travel issues.

What’s Next?

The match result could determine the direction of the TNT Championship heading into 2024, while potentially setting up future storylines between these technical wrestling specialists.

What do you think about this student versus mentor matchup? Share your predictions in the comments below.