Zack Sabre Jr. Defeats Nigel McGuinness, Retains IWGP World Title At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door
It was a first-time-ever match between two legendary technical wrestlers. Still, in the end, Zack Sabre Jr. defeated Nigel McGuinness and retained the IWGP World Heavyweight Title at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door. The match paid tribute to the British technical wrestling style, with World of Sport Wrestling icons Marty Jones and Johnny Saint front row in the crowd.
Ultimately, Zack Sabre Jr. managed to outmaneuver Nigel McGuinness, reversing a pin combination to crush his hopes of becoming a World Champion once again.
Zack Sabre Jr and Nigel McGuiness are having a WRESTLING MATCH#ForbiddenDoor pic.twitter.com/CabkcDbCzC
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) August 24, 2025
Nothing but respect from Nigel and Zack Sabre Jr #ForbiddenDoor
— Fightful Wrestling (@fightful.com) 2025-08-24T18:38:14.367Z
Daniel Garcia, who had accompanied Nigel to ringside, seemed disappointed when McGuinness lost but offered him a hesitant hug afterward.
Fans can find Fightful’s coverage of Forbidden Door here. Check out the post-show podcast for a full review here.
