Former Champion Bids Farewell To NJPW
This major NJPW name said an emotional goodbye.
Having previously announced plans to depart New Japan Pro-Wrestling at the end of the month, yesterday saw Tama Tonga formally bid farewell to NJPW.
Entering NJPW New Beginning in Nagoya as the NEVER Openweight Champion, Tama dropped that title to EVIL in the show's main event. Of course, Tama Tonga defeated Shingo Takagi at Wrestle Kingdom 18 to embark on his fourth reign with that prize.
Tama vs. EVIL originally ended in a double DQ following interference from Bullet Club, Guerillas of Destiny, and Hontai, although Tama insisted that the bout restarted as a lumberjack match. A shot from Ren Narita would eventually allow EVIL to get the 1-2-3 and claim the NEVER Openweight Championship for a third time.
Post-match, Tama Tonga cut an emotional promo thanking the fans before bowing to the crowd.
Thank you @1TamaTonga?♂️
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— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 20, 2024
Having spent the best part of 14 years competing for New Japan - including being a founding member of Bullet Club - Wrestle Kingdom 18 saw Tama Tonga reveal he'll be finishing up with the promotion at the end of January as he looks to work closer to home and spend more time with his family.
WWE had notable interest in Tama last year, and one has to imagine the 41-year-old will have plenty of interest from several promotions in the coming weeks and months.