After a lengthy absence from All Elite Wrestling, the legendary Kota Ibushi is back, and he is on a mission to reintroduce himself to the American audience. In a recent interview, the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion acknowledged that fans may have forgotten about him during his time away and stated that he hopes to remind them of who he is by delivering a series of great matches.
Kota Ibushi on His Long Absence and Return
Appearing on the latest episode of AEW’s digital series, Hey! (EW) with RJ City, Kota Ibushi was asked about his recent return to the company. Ibushi, speaking through a translator, was candid about the fact that he had been away for a long time and understood that he may have lost some momentum with the AEW fanbase.
“I was away from AEW for a long time, maybe people have forgot about me,” Ibushi said (per Fightful). “So again, I want to introduce myself by having good matches, and show more to the U.S.”
His statement shows a humble and focused mindset from one of the most decorated and respected wrestlers of his generation.
A Stop-and-Start AEW Career
Kota Ibushi’s career in All Elite Wrestling has been characterized by long periods of inactivity. He made his official debut with the company at the Blood & Guts event in July 2023, teaming with his long-time friends, The Elite (Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks, and “Hangman” Adam Page). He also competed at the historic All In event at Wembley Stadium in August 2023. However, following that event, he was largely absent from the company for nearly a year. He finally made his return to AEW television in late June of this year, and it appears he is now set to be a more consistent presence on the roster moving forward. His goal of reintroducing himself through great matches is a promising sign for fans who have been eager to see the “Golden Star” showcase his incredible talents on a regular basis.
A Legendary Resume
For fans who may have indeed forgotten, or for those who are not familiar with his work, Kota Ibushi is one of the most innovative and celebrated wrestlers of the past two decades. He rose to superstardom in Japan, competing for promotions like DDT and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. In NJPW, he achieved the highest honor, becoming the first-ever IWGP World Heavyweight Champion. He is known for his breathtaking high-flying ability, his brutal striking, and his almost superhuman ability to absorb punishment. He is also one-half of the legendary tag team, the Golden Lovers, with his best friend and former rival, Kenny Omega. A healthy and motivated Kota Ibushi is a massive asset to the AEW roster, and his desire to have a string of “good matches” could lead to a number of dream encounters with AEW’s top stars.
With his return to the company now in full swing, the wrestling world will be watching to see how AEW utilizes the legendary “Golden Star.” If his own words are any indication, fans are in for a treat as Kota Ibushi looks to remind everyone just how special of a performer he is.
