In a monumental announcement, Bryan Danielson has thrown down the gauntlet, demanding a rematch with Kazuchika Okada, set to take place at the Tokyo Dome during New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Wrestle Kingdom event in January.
Their previous encounter at this year’s AEW New Japan Pro Wrestling Forbidden Door event was nothing short of historic, but it left Bryan nursing a broken arm courtesy of Okada’s devastating elbow drop, known as the Rainmaker. Despite the injury, Bryan managed to secure a victory by forcing Okada to tap out to a modified armbar.
The rivalry between the two wrestlers escalated further during an AEW Dynamite event on October 25th when they faced off again, this time in a tag team match. However, the match ended in turmoil for Bryan, as he sustained additional hits from both Okada and his partner, exacerbating an existing injury to his orbital bone.
In a video released this weekend, Bryan, bandaged and determined, laid out a challenge to Okada for a rematch at Wrestle Kingdom. His intentions are clear – not only to win but to break his opponent’s arm and put an end to Okada’s signature move, the Rainmaker.
While Bryan’s ongoing recovery is projected to keep him out of action for the remainder of the year, there is optimism that he will be ready to return come early January.
Meanwhile, Bryan’s fellow Blackpool Combat Club member, Claudio Castagnoli, also seeks retribution against Okada for the injury inflicted on Bryan. However, the date for their showdown remains uncertain.
### Upcoming Free Agent to Make WWE Debut?
Speculation is rife about a potential major debut in WWE following last night’s Crown Jewel premium live event from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While many champions retained their titles, one superstar has been making waves online – Will Ospreay.
Fresh from defending his IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship, Ospreay teased a move to WWE in a social media interaction with Seth Rollins. With his New Japan Pro Wrestling contract set to expire in February 2024, Ospreay has openly declared his willingness to explore all options, including WWE.
### New Champion Crowned in WWE
Amidst the majority of champions retaining their titles at Crown Jewel, there was one notable exception – Logan Paul. In a surprising turn of events, the social media influencer defeated Rey Mysterio to become the new United States Champion.
Following his victory, Paul hinted at a more active role on WWE television, signaling a transition from his part-time status.
### Major Return at WWE Crown Jewel
Kyrie Sane made a stunning return to WWE at Crown Jewel, aiding Io Shirai in retaining her Women’s World Championship against Bianca Belair. Sane’s return to WWE comes after a successful stint in Japan and adds depth to the women’s division.
Top AEW Star Hits Back at Ric Flair
In response to Ric Flair’s desire for a promo battle, AEW World Champion MJF fired back with characteristic wit, suggesting a buried alive match instead. Despite the banter, MJF remains focused on his upcoming title defense against Jay White at AEW Full Gear.
### Former WWE World Champ Retires
Following his defeat at Crown Jewel, speculation mounts that John Cena has officially retired from in-ring competition. A series of events during and after the match, including Cena’s solo appearance in the ring and a cryptic Instagram post, suggest the end of an era for the 16-time world champion.
### CM Punk Fires Shot at All Elite Wrestling
While CM Punk’s future in wrestling remains uncertain, he continues to make waves in the MMA commentary world. During a recent broadcast, Punk took a subtle jab at AEW, hinting at a potential return to WWE or even Impact Wrestling.
As the wrestling world buzzes with speculation and anticipation, fans eagerly await the next chapter in these unfolding dramas.