Katsuyori Shibata has walked a long road to challenge for New Japan’s highest honor. Okada declared in 2014 that just standing in front of him wouldn’t earn Shibata the chance to challenge for the belt. Taking that to heart, Shibata has focused all his energies on working his way up the ranks, culminating in his hard fought victory at the New Japan Cup finals over Bad Luck Fale.
Okada now stands ready to defend his title against a worthy adversary. Both men are now stronger after that fated challenge 3 years ago. Who’s will has grown stronger!? The symbol of New Japan is at stake!