Katsuyori Shibata Status Following NJPW In-Ring Return

The wrestling status of Katsuyori Shibata has been revealed, following his surprise return to the ring during the G1 Climax 31 final event.

During the October 21 event, Shibata wrestled Zack Sabre Jr in his first bout since 2017. The wrestling veteran has since noted that the brief contest made him even hungrier for a full return to action.

As per Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Shibata isn’t currently medically cleared to compete. It was pointed out that his UWF rules exhibition against Sabre Jr was limited to five minutes with no bumps, no striking and his head always protected.

In 2017, Shibata suffered a subdural hematoma following his bout with Kazuchika Okada at Sakura Genesis. He underwent emergency surgery, and it was stated that it was unlikely he’d ever be able to step into a ring again.

Shibata is currently the head coach of the LA wing of the NJPW Dojo.

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• Medical
• KATSUYORI SHIBATA
• NJPW
• Return

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