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Zack Sabre Jr Loses NJPW Title

By Craig Ballantyne • Published 11th February 2025
Zack Sabre Jr NJPW

Zack Sabre Jr. suffered a shock defeat at The New Beginning in Osaka.

After winning the 2024 G1 Climax Tournament, Zack Sabre Jr. captured the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at King of Pro Wrestling, defeating Tetsuya Naito in Ryogoku Sumo Hall on October 14th. The victory meant the English could have his dream homecoming the following week, successfully defending the gold in London at Royal Quest.

ZSJ went on to retain the gold from challengers including Shingo Takagi, Shota Umino, and AEW’s Ricochet. Now, though, The Frontman’s reign has come to an end after 120 days.

At NJPW New Beginning, Sabre Jr. put the title on the line against Hirooki Goto in his hometown of Osaka. While some had written the 45-year-old off after multiple failed attempts to win the top title during his 22 years in the company, he finally fulfilled his ambition by putting ZSJ away with two GTRs.

An emotional Goto dedicated his victory to his late father before inviting his children into the ring to celebrate with him. To end the show, the new champion declared that the Goto revolution has just begun.

NJPW Personality Returning From Suspension

NJPW commentator Chris Charlton will return to the announce desk on March 6th. Charlton has been suspended since Wrestle Dynasty, when he made multiple comments about AEW President Tony Khan during the bout between New Japan’s Gabe Kidd and AEW’s Kenny Omega. Figures in the company were said to be “unhappy” with his actions, leading to the company pulling him from commentary for two months.