New Champions Crowned At NJPW Sakura Genesis
Big news out of Sumo Hall
A reported 4400 fans were on hand at Sumo Hall to witness the events of NJPW Sakura Genesis 2021, which included a pair of title changes.
In the main event, Will Ospreay defeated Kota Ibushi to win the IWGP World Heavyweight title. Ospreay managed to make several dramatic kickouts before hitting the Hidden Blade, and then pinning Ibushi with the Stormbreaker after 30 minutes of action.
Ibushi had held the title since March 4, the first champion of the "World" Heavyweight lineage, after unifying the belt with the Intercontinental title on that date.
In the post-match, Jeff Cobb attacked Ibushi, laying him out. Additionally, Ospreay cut a promo, wanting revenge from Wrestle Kingdom 15 earlier this year. He called out Kazuchika Okada, but before Okada could say anything, Shingo Takagi came out and demanded a shot before Okada.
Ospreay decreed that he would challenge Takagi first, then face Okada.
In addition, new IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team champions were crowned, when Sho and Yoh of Roppongi 3K defeated El Desperado and Yoshinobu Kanemaru. Yoh pinned Kanemaru with a butterfly suplex after a 21 minute match.
Written by Justin Henry
In addition to writing lists and commentaries for Cultaholic, Justin is also a features writer and interviewer for Fighting Spirit Magazine, and is co-author of the WWE-related book Titan Screwed: Lost Smiles, Stunners, and Screwjobs.
