Takeshita to challenge for IWGP title in October after G1 win

Konosuke Takeshita will challenge for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship on October 13, after securing the G1 Climax 35 crown and paving a path that runs through Destruction in Kobe and King of Pro Wrestling. The title match for Kobe on September 28 pits Zack Sabre Jr. defending against Ren Narita, with Narita earning the shot by defeating Sabre in G1 Climax action. The winner of that Kobe contest will immediately defend against Takeshita at King of Pro Wrestling, setting up a high-stakes sequence that could shape the promotion’s title picture heading into Wrestle Kingdom.

Takeshita’s achievement stands out for several reasons. He became the first active AEW talent to win the G1 Climax, a tournament long associated with NJPW’s top star-making moments. Alongside his AEW deal, Takeshita signed a one-year contract with NJPW in January and has since wrestled close to 30 matches in the promotion, building a substantial presence across both companies. The former G1 competitor’s victory came after a grueling final against EVIL that featured heavy interference, underscoring the stamina and resilience required to win the tournament. In total, Takeshita has logged 68 matches in...