Katsuyori Shibata Reveals Future Plans Following AEW In-Ring Debut

Following his AEW in-ring debut, Katsuyori Shibata has detailed his future plans.

'The Wrestler' told Tokyo Sports: "I think I will have a match in the near future. I've started to make a move."

Shibata was previously forced to retire in 2017 after suffering a subdural hematoma following his match at Sakura Genesis. He shockingly returned to the ring in 2021, though, and defeated Ren Narita at Wrestle Kingdom 16. 

Shibata then faced Orange Cassidy for the AEW All-Atlantic Championship on last week's edition of Rampage, suffering a loss to The King of Sloth Style. 

Reflecting on the match, Shibata admitted he found the experience frustrating.

"It's frustrating, really. The result is the same, and I have a lot of things to reflect on in terms of movement. I felt that I was back on the battlefield and that the ring is special. Sometimes things go well, and sometimes things don't go well. I really felt alive. I always wanted a chance. I thought that if I waited in Japan, I would never get a chance. I didn't want to miss out on the opportunity I have now. I wanted to give it my all," he added.

According to reports, Shibata requested AEW matches with Orange Cassidy and Bryan Danielson. 

H/T to F4W Online