Katsuyori Shibata made his in-ring debut for AEW on Friday's AEW Rampage when he challenged Orange Cassidy for the AEW All-Atlantic Championship.
Shibata was forced to retire in 2017 due to a subdural hematoma, but wrestled an exhibition bout against Zack Sabre Jr at NJPW G1 Climax 31 Finals and took on Ren Narita at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 16.
Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Shibata discussed his match against Orange Cassidy.
"It's frustrating, really. The result is the same, and I have a lot of things to reflect on in terms of my moves. I felt that I was back on the battlefield, and that the ring is special. Sometimes things go well, and sometimes things don't go well. I really felt alive. I've been looking for a chance for a long time. I thought that if I waited in Japan, I would never get a chance. I didn't want to miss out on the opportunity I have now. I wanted to give it my all. I went there without hesitation," he said.
Shibata lost to Orange Cassidy, but the two showed respect after the bout.
Tony Khan confirmed to Sports Illustrated that Shibata would also like to wrestle Bryan Danielson.
"I think I will fight in the near future. I've already started working on it," he said.
It is unknown when Shibata will return to the ring.
Fans can find results from AEW Rampage by clicking here.
