Kazuchika Okada has laid down a challenge for Battle in the Valley.
At New Japan Pro Wrestling's Power Struggle event on November 6, Okada defeated Tama Tonga, defending his right to challenge for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestle Kingdom 16. After the match, he commented on the upcoming Battle in the Valley show on November 13, saying the following (via NJPW):
"‘Next, I’ll be heading to the USA for a little bit. I’ll be leaving the fans here for a little while. The plan is to fire up the ring in America, so next stop: San Jose. Hey Buddy Matthews! I’ll see you in San Jose- bring it on, bastard.’"
On October 16 it was revealed that Buddy Matthews (Buddy Murphy in WWE) was headed to NJPW STRONG and would debut on November 13 at Battle in the Valley at the San Jose Civic in San Jose, California.
Matthews is a former NXT Cruiserweight Champion who was released by the company on June 2. He has done a handful of independent matches since his release and is also set to face Malakai Black in December.
This will mark Okada's first match in the United States since November 9, 2019 when he teamed with Will Ospreay to defeat Amazing Red & Kota Ibushi at NJPW Showdown In San Jose.
You can view results from today's Power Struggle event by clicking here.
