Pro-Wrestling NOAH: The Miracle of the Ark
AJ Styles acknowledged Japanese fans for shaping his career during his recent appearance at Tokyo’s Budokan. This report, by Tokio Tsukada (edited by Kyle Dunning), provides a detailed account of the event. Full credit is given to Pro-Wrestling NOAH and Wrestle Universe.
The match between WWE’s AJ Styles and Pro Wrestling NOAH’s Naomichi Marufuji took place on July 13, 2024, at the Budokan as part of the Pro Wrestling NOAH ABEMA presents DESTINATION 2024 event, featuring a double main event.
This match marks the beginning of a strengthened relationship between NOAH and WWE, announced by NOAH’s new management company, CyberFight, in May. AJ Styles returned to Japanese mats after five years, previously making his mark in New Japan Pro Wrestling as IWGP Heavyweight Champion and leading the BULLET CLUB.
AJ Styles’ Return to Japan
Despite his history with New Japan Pro Wrestling, AJ chose Pro Wrestling NOAH for his return to Japan, citing his deep respect and admiration for the promotion. AJ stated, “I choose NOAH, come here to wrestle at NOAH. I love Japan. I miss everything here. Being back here is my honor.”
Match Highlights
The highly anticipated match between AJ Styles and Naomichi Marufuji thrilled the crowd with dynamic technique exchanges. AJ dominated early rounds, targeting Marufuji’s left leg with low kicks and strikes. However, Marufuji dropkicked AJ off the ropes during an attempted phenomenal forearm, sending him tumbling and struggling to recover. Marufuji capitalized with a “shiranui” against the steel fence.
AJ countered with a dropkick and a Superman Splash, followed by intense back-and-forth action with both wrestlers trading submission holds. AJ secured victory with a Styles Clash at 25:27, despite Marufuji’s strong performance.
Marufuji’s early dominance led fans to believe he could defeat AJ. His post-match satisfaction reflected his competitive spirit. This match, broadcast in Japan and the U.S. on ABEMA PPV ON LINE LIVE, significantly raised Marufuji’s international profile.
NOAH-WWE Collaboration
This event marks the start of a new partnership between Pro Wrestling NOAH and WWE, promising more cross-promotional matches. AJ Styles emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying, “Swap talents between WWE and NOAH would be great, getting American experience and getting Japanese experiences make the best wrestlers in the world. This is what I have done and it paid off in my career.”
AJ also highlighted the support of Japanese fans, stating, “It is always the fans who make the match, not wrestlers. We’re just there. The fans always make the best matches. The Japanese fans are the best in the world because they respect wrestlers.”
Additional Matches
- GHC Heavyweight Championship: Kaito Kiyomiya successfully defended against Yoichi Inamura, a former sumo wrestler, using the Shining Wizard.
- GHC Junior Heavyweight Championship: AMAKUSA defeated Daga to become the new champion.
- GHC National Championship: Ulka Sasaki defeated Hayata to claim the title.
Conclusion
The collaboration between WWE and NOAH heralds a new era in wrestling, offering a fresh perspective on the sport in Japan, the U.S., and worldwide. The future looks bright for this exciting partnership, promising new opportunities and thrilling matches for fans everywhere.
