A new bout has been added to MLW's first event of 2023.
In a new press release sent out by the company earlier today, it was revealed that Jacob Fatu will be taking on DragonGate's Ben-K at the upcoming Blood & Thunder event, which will take place on January 7, 2023. This match comes as a part of the working partnership between MLW and DragonGate.
Fans can see the full press release below.
Two organizations have brokered a blockbuster dream match.
Major League Wrestling and DRAGONGATE are proud to announce Jacob Fatu vs. Ben-K at MLW Blood & Thunder on Saturday, January 7 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.Tickets start at $15 at MLW2300.com and the 2300 Arena box office.
The card is a FUSION TV taping, airing on beIN SPORTS nationwide on cable and dish, streaming on Pro Wrestling TV, and in over 60 countries around the world.
For the first time ever, two of wrestling’s most dynamic athletes will collide in an inter-promotional clash that will display the powerhouse ingenuity of Ben-K against the chaos and bedlam of Jacob Fatu.
One could argue no one in DragonGate has had such a breakout year like Ben-K has experienced.
Joining Gold Class earlier this year, DragonGate’s a faction of brute romantics, Ben-K flexes as he carries a golden rose and rocks gold chains that would make Gucci Mane show respect.
Dripping in gold around his neck as well as at times around his waist, Ben-K has collected multiple belts in his 6-year career, including the Open The Triangle Gate Championship, Open The Dream Gate title, the Open The Twin Gate Championship and claimed the 2019 King of Gate tournament.
A standout member of DragonGate dojo class of 2016, Ben-K has been a fixture in DragonGate for the past half decade.
With fans chanting along to his catchphrase “chiki chiki,” the gold draped DragonGate wrestler is the star of the show.
Backed by an arsenal of signature moves, including the Ben-K Bomb (Deadlift gutwrench powerbomb), Masakari (Jackhammer) and Sodegarami (Grounded full nelson sleeper), Ben-K vows to show his force using his explosive power when he steps in the ring with Fatu.
Meanwhile, Fatu enters this dream match on the heels of winning the Battle Riot and several high-profile wins.
On the hunt for the World Heavyweight Championship, Fatu will require a focused battle plan to counter Ben-K’s expansive arsenal and lucharesu style.
Expect Ben-K to challenge Fatu’s stamina and power. Can Ben-K counter the chaos Fatu is notorious for conjuring up in his matches?
Will Ben-K finish start 2023 building on the extraordinary momentum he has enjoyed in 2022? Or will he the next victim of the “Samoan Werewolf”?
Find out Saturday night, January 7th at MLW Blood & Thunder in Philadelphia!
Earlier this month, it was revealed that Alex Hammerstone will defend his MLW World Heavyweight Championship against YAMATO at Blood & Thunder. Although other matches have yet to be announced for the show, names like Davey Richards, Mance Warner, and Davey Boy Smith Jr. are all currently advertised.
Fightful will continue to update fans on the latest news regarding Major League Wrestling.