AEW has a lot of people on their roster with incredible stories, but few are as dramatic as Katsuyori Shibata. He nearly died in 2017 from a brain injury after wrestling Kazuchika Okada. Shibata collapsed after that match and was taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a subdural hematoma. Now, he is gearing up for his return.
Although Shibata was signed to AEW, he hasn’t been around in recent memory. It seems that he had another hurdle to get over this time around. Now, he is gearing up for his return despite having visa issues.
TOMORROW, Sat 3/16
Ottawa, ON
Saturday Night #AEWCollision
TNT 8pm ET/7pm CTAn Impossible Dream@K_Shibata2022 vs @bryandanielson
Before his #AEWDynasty Dream Match vs @WillOspreay,
Bryan collides vs Shibata, who aims for payback vs BCC in his own personal Dream Match TOMORROW pic.twitter.com/49Js17QsCn— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) March 15, 2024
Shibata’s Recent Issues
In a new development, Fightful Select has reported that Katsuyori Shibata is slated to clash with Bryan Danielson in a high-stakes showdown set for AEW Collision. That being said, there was a tough road for Shibata at the end of 2023.
Sources close to the situation have revealed that Shibata faced an unexpected hurdle in November, compelling him to return to Japan due to pressing visa issues. This turn of events led to him relinquishing the ROH Pure Title to Wheeler YUTA.
What’s Next For Shibata in AEW
Despite these setbacks, it was made clear that AEW President Tony Khan harbored substantial hope for Shibata’s future within the company. Additionally, insiders indicated that Shibata harbored contentment with his tenure in AEW.
Recent developments have seen Shibata’s visa woes resolved. This encouraged the powers-that-be in AEW to seize the opportunity and thrust him into a marquee matchup against Bryan Danielson on the next Collision episode.
SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more in the pro wrestling world. Please keep checking back for more stories and updates that you need.
