(NOAH) Marufuji builds a bridge with All Japan

18th May 2018
Yahoo Sports Japan

Is the forbidden door finally opened?
Noah's genius, Naomichi Marufuji (38) revealed his intention to start full scale interaction between Noah and All Japan at his 20th anniversary celebration (September 1st, Tokyo, Sumo Hall). For that purpose too, he will take the Triple Crown at Korakuen Hall on the 24th in Tokyo, and the GHC Heavyweight title on the 29th. He wishes to welcome his memorial debut as the first simultaneous champion on such an occasion.

Q: You will challenge Kento Miyahara (29) on the 24th, and then challenge the GHC Heavyweight champion, Takashi Sugiura (47) five days later.

MARUFUJI: It is the year of my 20th anniversary, and if there is no inspiration, it will come to an end. I think it is a year to show compliation. In this situation, encounters with people are not easy.

Q: It is unusual to have two title shots in two differemt events in just one week.

MARUFUJI: It feels good. I know I had a hard schedule in April, and, although it was a harsh one, I feel good. I have not picked up any injuries either.

Q: You won the victory at the "Champion Carnival", and challenged for the triple crown at Korakuen Hall in April 30th?

MARUFUJI: Yes, he is at the top of All Japan, and I think that he has grown up too. But, like last time he will not want to lose; I understood that after the match.

Q: What was your image of the Triple Crown during the All Japan era?

MARUFUJI: The belt was on the clouds. But now it is in a place where I can touch it with my fingers. I would like to wear it like Mitsuharu Misawa did. I'd like to add my name to its history. 

Q: GHC Champion, Takashi Sugiura, is critcising you as someone "who chases two hares"*

MARUFUJI: We protected Noah together, and have strong thoughts on the subject. I want the young wrestlers to rebound to the GHC. Anyway, I am being chased by two hares, not chasing them. Come what may, I will not refuse them.

Q: So depending on the Triple Crown match, how will your relationship with All Japan be?

MARUFUJI: I will tell you right here, if you imagine someone other than me who came from that group. I wonder if it would be unbearable? Jun Akiyama and I had our drama, but it does not mean that there are no new things to potentially be born.

Q: I see, so the stage will be at the 20th anniversary show?

MARUFUJI: It's going to be fun (laughs). I am the bridge between the two groups? I cannot avoid being so, because only myself and Jun Akiyama can talk about it? (Exchange between the two companies)

Q: And to finish?

MARUFUJI: In the year of the 20th anniversary, I want to get everything, the Triple Crown, the GHC Heavyweight.

Please click here to read original article (in Japanese)

*Japanese proverb "the man who chases two hares, will catch neither"