(NOAH) Mutual Love For The Ark

Weekly Pro

22nd January 2025

KENTA vs KENOH: A fierce kickboxing battle in their first one-on-one showdown in eleven years!

"Win or lose, I'm always ready." (KENTA)

The match against KENTA—realized through Kenoh’s bold initiative—was a fitting centerpiece for Noah’s 25th-anniversary year. While the events leading up to the bout might have appeared to be a one-sided pursuit, one cannot overlook the slight disconnect that occurred along the way.

When Kenoh promised fans that KENTA would continue to appear in Noah this year if he won their upcoming match, KENTA retorted on X: "Don't decide for me. For me, Noah isn't the kind of place where I show up just for a 'penalty match.' Whether I win or lose, I’m the one who decides my future." Unintentionally, Kenoh had drawn out his opponent's true feelings.

When KENTA left Noah in 2014 to pursue his dream in WWE, it wasn't without a sense of lingering attachment; after all, he had staked everything on revitalizing the promotion—known as "The Ark"—during a period when it was struggling. For Kenoh, meanwhile, this match represents a chance for revenge eleven years in the making—a pivotal bout to cement the current era of Noah in the promotion's storied legacy.

Kenoh entered the decisive battle with the same black hair he had when he was chasing KENTA.

The match turned into a thrilling battle where both fighters clashed in a way that exceeded expectations. Kenoh proved that Noah was the ring where his "loved one" could shine the brightest, but in the end, he failed to get the same result as 11 years ago—his revenge was unsuccessful.

After the match, Kenoh extended his hand for a handshake while loudly declaring, "Noah needs KENTA," but his gesture went unreciprocated.

Backstage, KENTA stated, "Win or lose, I’m always ready." Through his words and actions leading up to the match—including autograph sessions, social media posts, and his confrontation with Kenoh that day—he made his feelings toward Noah clear. 

What decision will he ultimately make?

PICTURE BLURBS

~ KENTA appeared to the theme song from his NO MERCY days, climbed onto the corner, and attempted to throw a signed t-shirt, a tradition from that era. However, the song ended midway through. After the match he complained, "What's going on?"

~ Kenoh unleashed the Dragon, a move he used to get the win in his first Tag Team Championship match in 2011. 

~ KENTA'S barrage of kicks was brutal. 

~ In the end, KENTA'S Go2Sleep finished off Kenoh

~ After the match, Kenoh shook hands with KENTA and asked him to continue participating in Noah. However..."I said that with my current abilities I could easily beat KENTA, but I guess that's not good enough. I've found a good goal".