Kenny Omega is now the torch bearer for New Japan Pro Wrestling as IWGP Heavyweight Champion, a stark contrast to where he was in 2015 when he took part in the NJPW Junior Heavyweight Division. As it turns out, Omega had been battling an injury during that time as well.
Fightful.com was able to speak with Kenny Omega recently, who looked back on his lighter days. When we asked if any of his athleticism had been compromised with the added weight and moving up as a heavyweight, Omega revealed that injuries had actually hampered him prior.
"I've increased my training to the degree there's nothing I can no longer do. Maybe I've lost a little bit of quickness, which comes with extra poundage on your frame, but during my time as a junior heavyweight I dealt with a neck injury that was at risk of getting really bad. I was being very careful during my title run. It wasn't full power Kenny Omega like I'm able to show these days. I'm actually a better athlete and more healthy as a heavyweight right now," said Omega.
Now healthy, Omega will defend his newly won IWGP Heavyweight Championship against fellow Bullet Club member Cody at the NJPW G1 Special in San Francisco at the Cow Palace on July 7. The show will be broadcast by AXS TV and covered by Fightful.com.