Almost a
week ago, in a campaign spearheaded by KJPW star Naoki Fukuda, the political
borders that had kept many of Japan's most well-known stars away from KJPW were
symbolically lifted. Today marks the first significant milestone as former
Pro-Wrestling FURY star and Kazuma Fujita disciple TETSUHISA NAKAI appeared at KJPW's offices in front of reporters
who publically witnessed his contract signing! KJPW President Ishiyama pushed
the signing as a pivotal moment for the company, and praised NAKAI as arguably
the strongest wrestler to debut in the last 15 years.
The son of
legendary 90's heel Kendo NAKAI, Tetsuhisa NAKAI debuted in 2002 as one of
Kazuma Fujita's top students. He spent years fiercely battling classmates
Hiroaki Nakata and ZERO Kubota for the promotion's top spot. Ultimately
however, NAKAI shocked Japan by quitting FURY abruptly to become a death match
fighter. He returned to FURY years later at the behest of Hiroaki Nakata, where
he would remain until the promotion shut its doors in 2012. Among FURY's stars,
he has had more high-profile bouts than anyone. In 2004, NAKAI became the first
of his students to defeat Kazuma Fujita in a singles match. A year later, he
attempted to out-do himself by wrestling the Double Titles away from Genji
Yamato, only to fall short. In 2008, NAKAI began a violent feud with Ryo Inoue
which ultimately resulted in Inoue choking NAKAI into unconsciousness...
Giving an
initial statement, NAKAI said that he had traveled a hard road. However, it was
by choice -- and being that everything has shaped him into the man he is today,
he has no regrets. "Looking towards the future is my only concern."
he said with a sense of somber maturity.
Surveying
the current landscape of KJPW, NAKAI said that the spotlight is currently on
his former teacher, and one of his former heroes -- of course referring to the
upcoming bout between Kazuma Fujita and Genji Yamato. "Fujita is always
seeking the spotlight, but Yamato...? His return surprises me. I don't think he
has anything to prove given his resume... But he must think differently."
Looking
forward to 4/17, NAKAI made the suggestion to President Ishiyama of allowing
him to accept the open challenge laid down by Naoki Fukuda, and his partner
Riki Ichiro! "He led the call for my return... It seems fitting to let him
experience exactly what he has asked." When asked who his partner would
be, NAKAI jokingly admitted that he hadn't gotten that far yet, but would team
with anybody suitable... This led to the surprising appearance of 198cm Mamoru
Sekishima, who appealed to be NAKAI's partner! "Aa! Mamoru-kun... You've
grown... somehow." NAKAI remarked. Giving his case, Sekishima said he
wanted to prove himself in a high-profile match. He admitted that all of his
challenges so far have been turned down due to his popularity level... However,
being a Kansai-native, Sekishima promised to sell a significant amount of
tickets personally -- even if it meant slumming it in sleazy bar alleyways...
NAKAI nor President Ishiyama weren't quite sure what to make of Sekishima's
animated personality. Citing the amazing ticket sales in the last couple of
days, President Ishiyama politely said Sekishima's "probably illegal
soliciting" wouldn't be needed. Despite the rejection, Sekishima refused
to give up, and pleaded on his hands and knees to NAKAI in a most humble
fashion. Embarrassed by Sekishima's formality, NAKAI hurriedly pulled the
"Greco Superman" to his feet, and accepted his plea!
KINGDOM of JAPAN PRO-WRESTLING,
"KING × KING" (iPPV/PPV/TV)
April 17, 2015
Osaka - BODYMAKER Colosseum (6,000)
1. "DAUNTLESS"
Naoki Fukuda & "Hot-Blooded Samurai" Riki Ichiro vs. Tetsuhisa
NAKAI & Mamoru Sekishima
2. Double Titles Match: "FIGHTING
LOVE!" Genji Yamato (c) vs. "Mr. 300%" Kazuma Fujita
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