Yota Tsuji Says He Didn’t Boycott Forbidden Door, Will Wrestle Non-Title Match In AEW

Yota Tsuji clarifies past comments about AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door.

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.

Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Tsuji clarified what he meant.

“I think many people have the impression that I boycotted the ‘Forbidden Door’ joint event in June, but I didn’t boycott it. I just don’t intend to easily have an IWGP match against a wrestler from another organization, but conversely, if it’s not a title match, I think it’s fine for me to go to AEW. If someone picks a fight with me, I’ll accept the challenge even if the belt isn’t on the line,” he said.

Tsuji previously invited Tony Khan for a round of golf.

Tsuji successfully defended the IWGP Heavyweight Title against Hirooki Goto at NJPW Destruction in Kobe.