Kota Ibushi Considered Retiring Over Shoulder Injury

Kota Ibushi has been through several injuries in his career. He received revisited his shoulder injury experience and acknowledged that he contemplated retirement.

During the NJPW G1 Finals in October 2021, Ibushi sustained a shoulder injury, sidelining him until his return to the ring at Bloodsport 9 in March 2023. Since then, Ibushi has participated in various matches, making appearances in AEW on multiple occasions. His upcoming significant match at NOAH The New Year on January 2, where he will face Naomichi Marufuji, adds to his recent wrestling ventures.

In a conversation with Pro Wrestling NOAH’s website, Kota Ibushi delved into the upcoming match and responded to inquiries about his potential retirement. In an interview translated to English, he was quite candid.

“As for that, I’m not sure when it will be over for me either. I’m not the type to set my own time frame, so I want to do as much as I can. But…well…if I can’t do it anymore, if there is no more demand, I think it’s the end. If there is no more demand, I ask them to cut me off immediately. I’m the type of person who says that if I find out, I’ll quit immediately. Conversely, Mr. Marufuji is the type who decides. He has five years left. I hope I can play a role in that time.”

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Kota Ibushi is now with AEW, and it appears that he is enjoying himself. His career has seen a few highs and several lows as well, but he has also remained dedicated to being the best pro wrestler he can.

Ibushi has not retired yet, and he has a legion of fans all over the world who are very happy about that face. Only time will tell what 2024 has in store for him, but he is still going strong, without any obvious thought about retirement right now.

What’s your take on Kota Ibushi’s career? Are you glad that he didn’t retire? Let us know what you think in the comments section!