Wrestle Pedia
Jon Moxley has a well-established history with New Japan Pro-Wrestling and has made significant appearances in the promotion over the years. Even after becoming the world champion in NJPW, Moxley has confirmed he is still on a handshake deal with the promotion.
As previously reported, Jon Moxley defeated Tetsuya Naito to claim the IWGP Heavyweight Championship at NJPW Windy City Riot, thus making history.
In a recent interview with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Jon Moxley disclosed that his initial agreement with New Japan Pro-Wrestling was based on a handshake for a six-month term. Even after all these years, he continues to work with NJPW on a similar handshake agreement, emphasizing the strong and trusting relationship he has with the Japanese promotion.
“When I first came to Japan, I wanted to understand it and participate in it,” Moxley shared. “That allowed me to learn and grow. I didn’t come in and say, ‘This is what I do and this is what we’re doing.’ Everyone I wrestled, I learned from. I’ve really been able to grow a lot working with New Japan. It’s been a mutually beneficial relationship. They get me, and I get them.”
He noted that his first contract with NJPW was for six months, and because it worked well for both sides, they decided to continue. “The shoe fit, so we kept going. We’re still on a handshake deal,” Moxley explained, illustrating his commitment to maintaining a flexible and collaborative approach with the company.
In the meantime, The Purveyor of Violence will be defending the title on this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite against Powerhouse Hobbs, so it remains to be seen how Hobbs will fare against Jon Moxley.
Are you looking forward to Jon Moxley having an extended run as the IWGP Heavyweight Champion? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!