One big thing: Zack Sabre Jr. crowned IWGP World Heavyweight Champion
Zack Sabre Jr. defeated Tetsuya Naito at NJPW’s King of Pro Wrestling event on October 14, claiming his first major heavyweight championship after seven years with the promotion.
Why it matters
• This victory marks a significant milestone in Sabre’s career, elevating him to the top of New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s roster.
• It demonstrates NJPW’s commitment to pushing international talent in their heavyweight division.
Jeff Jarrett’s reaction
AEW’s Jeff Jarrett congratulated Sabre on his “My World” podcast, expressing surprise and admiration:
• “I didn’t think New Japan was taking him in that direction, dude that is incredible for that guy.”
• “What an ascension. Okay, so the load is on his shoulders, where is he going to take it?”
• “Congrats Zack, very, very happy for you.”
By the numbers
• 7 years: Sabre’s tenure in NJPW before winning the title
• 12 months: Time between Sabre’s acclaimed match with Bryan Danielson at WrestleDream and his championship win
What’s next
• October 20: Sabre defends his title against SANADA at NJPW’s Royal Quest IV in London
• November 4: If Sabre retains, he faces Shingo Takagi at Power Struggle; if SANADA wins, he’ll defend against Shota Umino
The bottom line
Zack Sabre Jr.’s IWGP World Heavyweight Championship win represents a major shift in NJPW’s landscape, with potential ripple effects throughout the global wrestling scene.
What do you think about Zack Sabre Jr.’s championship victory? Will this lead to more international wrestlers holding top titles in major Japanese promotions? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
