Shota Umino Thinks AEW Looks Down On IWGP, Wants To Correct Course

Ahead of AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, IWGP Heavyweight Champion Yota Tsuji suggested boycotting the event given how AEW had treated the champion over the years, noting that the title had been defended in four-way matches or against competitors who hadn’t earned a title match.

While Tsuji is not currently scheduled for the event, IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion Shota Umino will defend his title against PAC.

Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Umino gave his reasoning.

“I understand his feelings, so I hope he sticks to his guns. The concept behind the belt is important, and given how the IWGP has been treated in AEW so far, I think it’s been looked down upon. I believe it’s time to correct that course.

I think the concept of the IWGP was that, as champion, I would ‘accept any challenge.’ However, given that there are now other belts bearing the IWGP name, I believe that ‘accepting any challenge’ overseas is my job as the GLOBAL champion who transcends borders.

There’s a risk that the title could be taken overseas if I lose, but I want New Japan Pro-Wrestling to prove to the world that the IWGP GLOBAL Championship is the greatest—and I’m willing to take on that responsibility.”

Shota won the IWGP Global Heavyweight Title by defeating Andrade El Idolo and Drilla Moloney in a three-way match at NJPW Dominion.