Kota Ibushi – “I’m More Suited To AEW Than Japan”

Kota Ibushi doesn’t think he fits in his country’s wrestling industry anymore.

Kota Ibushi is one of the most popular Japanese wrestlers among diehard fans. He’s known for his daredevil style, explosive kickboxing-inspired offense, and complete disregard for his own safety. It wouldn’t be farfetched to describe him as “an indy guy”, especially compared to some of the more traditional wrestling styles seen in Japan.

Maybe it’s because of that difference that Ibushi no longer has much attachment to the wrestling styles prevalent in his home country. Earlier on Thursday, Ibushi spoke to Dark Puroresu Flowsion, a Twitter account that focuses on translated Japanese wrestlers’ comments into English.

According to a conversation with Ibushi, the wrestler admitted that he’s contemplating his wrestling future and appears to be more inclined to sign with AEW because that company’s philosophy on wrestling aligns more closely with his own than any other promotion.

“I don’t want to go out normally, I want to go out seriously. I think I’m more suited to AEW than Japan. I already thought so during All In. I have many friends. There are even the best tag partners.”

Kota Ibushi left New Japan after an acrimonious dispute involving the company’s management and a serious injury he suffered back in 2021. He has been looking at several different options since then, including opening a wrestling school.