Andrade El Idolo: When I Was A Young Wrestler In Japan, I Promised I Would Return As A Superstar

Andrade El Idolo reflects on his time in Japan with New Japan Pro Wrestling, recalling a promise he made to return their as a superstar.

Andrade recently completed a reign of the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship that he recently lost at NJPW Dominion, but it was not his first run in New Japan as he competed there prior to signing with WWE for the first time.

While speaking to Undisputed with Justin Barrasso, Andrade El Idolo would talk about what wrestling Japan means to him.

“Japan reminds me of when I started, that’s why it is different there. I am reminded of my hunger, the way I felt at the beginning of my career when I went to Japan as La Sombra and was surrounded by so many legends. A lot of those legends are retired now, but it feels good to be back. The fire still burns. Winning that title was very important. I take being champion very seriously. When I was a young wrestler in Japan, I promised I would return as a superstar. I told myself I would show my talent to the world. It is hard to win a championship in Japan. The opponents there are very harsh. There are incredible wrestlers in the United States, but Japan is different for me because it’s been a personal dream of mine for a long time. Every time I return to Japan, it is incredible.”

Andrade would also discuss his plans for 2027 and the travel he plans to do.

“Next year I plan to travel more around the world, especially in Asia and the indies. Indies know I give it my all, no matter the opponent. My style and preparation allow me to wrestle anyone. I’m still young, but I am aware there are younger wrestlers in their 20s. I am 36, but my maximum is different [from everyone else].”

Elsewhere in the same interview, Andrade spoke about his goals of becoming the AEW World Champion and the IWGP Heavyweight Champion. You can read more about that here.