411MANIA | Katsuyori Shibata Reportedly Taking Time Away From ROH
Katsuyori Shibata is expected to take some time away from ROH and tonight was a way to write him off television...
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As previously reported, Wheeler Yuta became a three-time ROH Pure Champion at AEW Rampage tonight when he stole the title from Katsuyori Shibata. Fightful Select reports that Shibata is expected to take some time away from ROH and tonight was a way to write him off television. He has to return to Japan as soon as possible for an extended period of time, and could not wait until Final Battle as people in ROH hoped.
After Yuta won the title, he attacked Shibata and attempted to injure his brain, before HOOK made the save. This was something Shibata was supportive of to explain his absence, but not put him out for good. The attack would do just enough that in storyline, he’d be given a ‘no contact’ period before he can return as a precaution. This plays into Shibata’s real life subdural hematoma in 2017 that forced him to retire.
Since Shibata could not stay until Final Battle, he and ROH worked out this plan and Shibata loved the idea presented to him. He is said to be happy in AEW/ROH and enjoyed teaming with the likes of Orange Cassidy and HOOK. However, it is unknown when he will return.
