Yota Tsujis recent comments about AEW werent meant to stir debate or sell a cross-promotional match and a new backstage report makes it clear he meant every word.
During a recent interview with NJPW1972.com, Tsuji was asked whether his upcoming Wrestle Kingdom match against Konosuke Takeshita should be viewed as a cross-promotional clash, given Takeshitas ties to AEW. Tsuji didnt hesitate and immediately shut down the idea, making his stance unmistakably clear.
When it was pointed out just how strong those comments were, Tsuji doubled down and questioned the value of the partnership altogether.
Tsuji acknowledged the financial imbalance between the companies but rejected the idea that it should dictate New Japans approach.
He did, however, offer a measured take when discussing Kazuchika Okadas involvement in cross-promotional history, specifically related to Hiroshi Tanahashi.
After the interview circulated, some assumed Tsujis remarks were exaggerated or delivered in character due to his Wrestle Kingdom match with Takeshita. However, an update from Fightful Select paints a very different picture.
According to Fightful, sources within New Japan Pro Wrestling do not believe Tsuji was speaking in character at all and say he has been vocal internally about his dissatisfaction with the AEW relationship for years.
The report also noted that Tsuji was among the talent who were hesitant about working U.S.-based shows tied to the partnership, even though he had participated in them previously. Adding a twist to the situation, it was also revealed that Tsuji was once discussed for a major AEW spotlight.
The update reframes Tsujis interview as something far more revealing than pre-match rhetoric. Rather than playing along with inter-promotional narratives, it appears Tsuji was expressing genuine frustration about where New Japan stands in the relationship even as he continues to compete within it.
Do you think Yota Tsuji speaking this openly could impact NJPWs relationship with AEW going forward, or is it simply long-overdue honesty finally coming to the surface? Share your thoughts and leave your feedback below.
