Top NJPW Star Reveals Championship Aspirations For 2023

NJPW

A top NJPW star has revealed his championship aspirations for the new year.

Hiroshi Tanahashi is viewed by many as one of the greatest in-ring performers to step foot in a NJPW ring.

“The Ace” has never held the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, but he is a former eight-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion.

Despite not holding the top prize in New Japan Pro Wrestling since 2019, the NJPW star has kept his eyes focused on championship gold.

During the Bushiroad New Year’s Grand Announcement (via Tokyo Sports), Tanahashi discussed his desire to get back to the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship scene. He said:

“This year, I want to challenge for the IWGP World Heavyweight belt and become champion. I want to be a force that helps the pro wrestling world stand up from the hard times, so please continue to support me.”

“Why now? Because there is a lot of attention and spread today. Some people may think, ‘You’re already a [legend],’ but as long as I am a professional wrestler, I want to be a champion.”

“If I no longer aim to be a champion, that’s when I think it’s time to retire. This is a statement of determination once again.”

Hiroshi Tanahashi teamed with Keiji Muto and Shota Umino to defeat Tetsuya Naito, SANADA and BUSHI at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17 on January 4.

After resuming hostilities at New Year’s DASH the following day, Tanahashi will face Bullet Club’s KENTA at NJPW New Beginning in Osaka on February 11.

As previously reported, a pair of top AEW stars have teased their potential NJPW return.

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