AJ Styles may have come up short against Cody Rhodes at Clash At The Castle, but WWE has significant plans for The Phenomenal One. Styles is set to compete at NOAH’s Destination event next month, and the reasoning behind his selection for this high-profile match has now been unveiled.
Previously announced by Pro Wrestling NOAH and WWE, AJ Styles will face Japanese wrestling icon Naomichi Marufuji at NOAH Destination 2024 on July 13 at Budokan Hall. This dream match has generated considerable excitement among fans.
In an interview with Tokyo Sports, Cyberfight Director Narihiro Takeda, who oversees NOAH, discussed the negotiation process between WWE and NOAH. He explained that the collaboration was facilitated through ABEMA, the internet television network that broadcasts shows for both promotions.
Takeda highlighted that the positive reception to last year’s match between Shinsuke Nakamura and Keiji Mutoh at NOAH’s New Year Show prompted negotiations for another marquee bout at Budokan Hall. WWE recognized that participating in NOAH events could enhance their visibility in Japan.
“We got a positive response, so we were able to talk,” Takeda said.
Takeda personally nominated AJ Styles for the match, despite Styles not having a prior affiliation with NOAH. He believed that Styles would be an excellent representative of WWE, maintaining the company’s image while providing a dream match for Japanese fans.
“The WWE Universe wouldn’t want the WWE worldview to be destroyed, and WWE performances in Japan come as a package. The next wrestler Japanese fans can dream of being apart from WWE is AJ after Shinsuke Nakamura,” Takeda explained.
Marufuji, on the other hand, was nominated by WWE as Styles’ opponent. Takeda emphasized that Marufuji was the obvious choice due to his recognition in America and his legendary status in Japan, especially considering NOAH’s presence in the U.S. with their pay-per-view events.
“It was like there was only one choice. If there’s a NOAH wrestler who’s well-known in America, it’s got to be Marufuji. He’s a Japanese legend. I think it also has to do with the fact that there are PPVs for NOAH over there,” Takeda noted.
NOAH recently announced plans to strengthen ties with WWE, with Takeda hinting at further developments to enhance their relationship. Fans can look forward to more surprise appearances by international superstars at future events.
“There is still a lot more to be done regarding strengthening our relationship. We can look forward to more surprise appearances by superstars in the future,” Takeda added.
The upcoming match between AJ Styles and Naomichi Marufuji at NOAH Destination 2024 promises to be a historic event, bridging two wrestling worlds and thrilling fans globally.
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