New Japan Pro-Wrestling has officially announced that Jon Moxley will defend his IWGP U.S. Heavyweight Championship at the annual King of Pro-Wrestling event, this year taking place at Ryogoku Sumo Hall on October 14.
Moxley made his debut with the promotion on June 5 at the finals of the 2019 Best of the Super Juniors tournament, defeating Juice Robinson in a move that shocked many – this writer included – to win the IWGP U.S. title, despite being perhaps the most hyped new star of All Elite Wrestling.
Following his big win, the former WWE champion competed in the 2019 G1 Climax tournament, wrestling a total of 18 matches throughout the tour in just one month. On the final night of block competition, Robinson actually defeated Moxley in tournament action, keeping him out of the finals and exacting a little bit of revenge in the process.
Following their score-evening bout, Moxley claimed that he would give Robinson the championship rematch he wanted – under one condition. If he wants his title back, he’ll have to go through a No Disqualification match against one of the sickest men on the roster.
Also announced for King of Pro-Wrestling is the 4th defense of IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada, taking on SANADA, while Will Ospreay defends his IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship against the winner of the 2019 Super J-Cup and one of his greatest career rivals, Bullet Club’s El Phantasmo.