Tetsuya Naito To Have Another Eye Surgery, Undergo Stem Cell Treatment On Knee

Tetsuya Naito is set to undergo several medical procedures after his exit from New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

The multi-time IWGP World Heavyweight Champion departed NJPW in early May following Wrestling Dontaku, and in an interview with Tokyo Sports confirmed he was set to undergo surgery on his left eye on May 7.

Naito has had eye issues for several years, undergoing several procedures to fix double vision in his right eye before having issues with his left. Naito also confirmed he was set to undergo stem cell treatment on his right knee, with the former LIJ leader’s knees having been famously bad for many years.

After departing NJPW, Naito insists he has made no decision as to the next chapter of his career, using this time to maintain and repair his body before deciding what’s next.

Naito is the latest high-profile name to depart New Japan in the past few years, with the exits of Kazuchika Okada and Will Ospreay in 2024 and the upcoming full-time retirement of Hiroshi Tanahashi leaving a void in the main event scene. With Naito having now departed the promotion, NJPW will be expected to build several new main eventers.

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