Hiroshi Tanahashi: Whoever Beats Jon Moxley For IWGP World Title Will Have A Big Spotlight On Them

Hiroshi Tanahashi shares his thoughts on Jon Moxley's reign as IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.

AEW star Jon Moxley beat Tetsuya Naito to win the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at NJPW Windy City Riot on April 13. The move has been met with some criticism, as Moxley has missed some of NJPW's smaller shows so far. He has competed at a few of the company's larger events, including both nights of NJPW Wrestling Dontaku.

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Speaking with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi explained why he believes Moxley's title reign is a big opportunity for NJPW. He noted that it was not the first time the world title had been worn by an outsider.

“This isn’t the first time that the top title has been worn by an outsider. Whoever can take it off Moxley will have a big spotlight on them, and I hope they make the most of it," Tanahashi said, speaking through a translator.

Moxley is set to defend the title against Shota Umino at NJPW Resurgence on May 11.

In a recent interview, Moxley stated that he was under a handshake deal with NJPW. Check out his comments here.

Catch up on our coverage of NJPW Wrestling Dontaku Night Two here.

Click here to check out the card for NJPW Resurgence.

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