(NOAH) Naomichi Marufuji sends a message to Kenoh on the "issue of the main", that is swirling with pros and cons.

12th December 2023

Tokyo Sports

Can the Genius of The Ark silence the noise? 

On January 2nd next year, Naomichi Marufuji (44) will clash with Kota Ibushi (41), who is also known as the "Golden Star", in their first singles match in Noah's main event at Tokyo's Ariake Arena. However, there are mixed opinions among the fans, with Kenoh, the GHC Heavyweight Champion, being demoted to the semi-final in his first defense against Manabu Soya at the same show, and is furious. 

What is Marufuji's opinion on the "issue of the main?" 

Marufuji is calm about the fact that he was selected for the main event for a match with Ibushi, setting aside the promotion's highest championship. Regarding being chosen for the main event, he said, "I never thought, "I'll take the main event no matter what." Rather than that, I had a stronger mindset of, "I'll make you enjoy my professional wrestling, no matter what". So I'm just going to do my best this time", he said quietly. 

However, it is true that there is a debate among fans. CyberFight director, Narihiro Takeda, who oversees Noah, issued a statement on "Noah's official Note", explaining that he had decided on the main himself. Since Marufuji has stated that he will retire in five years, he has asked the fans for their understanding, saying that "Ariake Arena will definitely be the turning point in the final chapter of Naomichi Marufuji". On the other hand, GHC Heavyweight Champion Kenoh said in anger, "It means that the company thinks that Marufuji-kun's retirement road is more important than the belt". But, Marufuji sent a message saying, "I honestly think that it is because everyone knows the hard work and effort that Kenoh has put in has led to the voices of the fans today." In addition to showing understanding of the champion's argument he said, "I'm personally looking forward to the title match between Kenoh and Soya. I want them to do their best, and I am inspired by them". 

Also the fact that he had clearly announced that he would retire in five years, was a major factor for his selection for the main event. Regarding his retirement he revealed, "I've been thinking about it for quite some time. I think the match with Ibushi-kun will probably become difficult in a year's time due to the environment and conditions. I think there will be more opponents like that, and so I want to cherish this match. Maybe I'll retire sooner than five years".

Singles were planned with Ibushi in April 2009 and July 2010, but it did not materialize due to mutual injuries. Thirteen and a half years have passed since then. "Ibushi-kun is crazy, in a good way. I don't know about his private life. I'm really looking forward to it, and so I want the audience to enjoy it as well. Confident that you can win? Where's the guy who fights with the intention of losing?"

The Genius of The Ark will be in action at the New Year's battle of Ariake.

Translated from Tokyo Sports

Picture credit Tokyo Sports