Okada Retains AEW International Title Amid Belt Mishap
Kazuchika Okada retained his AEW International Championship on Saturday night's episode of AEW Collision in Arlington, Texas, defeating challenger Adam Priest in a match that highlighted an unusual production mishap involving the missing title belt.
The bout, lasting just over 10 minutes, saw Okada secure the victory with his signature Rainmaker lariat for the pinfall. Priest mounted a competitive effort, targeting Okada's knee early with strikes and a figure-four leglock in the ring's center. Okada reached the ropes to break the hold, but the challenger's momentum was disrupted by interference from Rocky Romero, a fellow Don Callis Family member who transitioned from commentary to ringside involvement. The match featured tense moments, including a near fall after Priest's Alabama Jam leg drop, before Okada rallied to finish the contest.
Viewers noticed the championship belt was absent or obscured during Okada's entrance and the match itself, with the title carried in a covered case rather than displayed openly. Reports indicate the issue stemmed from a lost bag containing the belt and Okada's customary ring gear, forcing last-minute adjustments. To address the situation on air,...