Kota Ibushi Taken To Hospital Following First Singles Match In Japan Since 2021

Kota Ibushi competed in his first singles match in Japan since October 2021 today as he faced Naomichi Marufuji in the main event of Pro Wrestling NOAH The New Year. The dream match quickly turned into a nightmare for The Golden Star, however. 

Ibushi went into the January 2 match with a broken ankle and hand and he ended up landing awkwardly on his ankle only minutes into the Marufuji match following a Springboard Moonsault to the floor. Ibushi ultimately wrestled for 33 minutes before he defeated Marufuji with a Kamigoye but the AEW talent was unable to stand following the match, collapsing to the mat in pain after Marufuji raised his arm. 

Ibushi eventually rose to his feet for a staredown with Kaito Kiyomiya and the 41-year-old made his way to the back under his own power. Hochi.news has reported, however, that Ibushi complained of severe pain following the match and he was transported to a local hospital due to injuries to both ankles. It was noted that Ibushi was injured in the early stages of the match. 

The full extent of Ibushi's injuries are unknown as of the time of writing. 

Ibushi has suffered from injuries in recent years, spending 18 months out of action between October 2021 and March 2023 with a serious shoulder injury. The Golden Star has since had several matches in All Elite Wrestling and signed with the promotion since his in-ring return.