Having a gaijin as champion worked well for NJPW in the past, however, during the pandemic era it has caused one of their belts to essentially be suspended. Jon Moxley, the reigning IWGP US Heavyweight Champion has held the belt since January 2020. Claiming victory over Lance Archer at Wrestle Kingdom. It is his second reign, after being stripped of the belt while battling a nasty MRSA infection in his elbow. It was the enforcement or a rather strict rule in Japan about making commitments and defending belts.
While unable to travel to Japan, Jon Moxley has defended his NJPW title a few times. Including a defence on Dynamite against Japanese legend Yugi Nagata.
Now, Jon Moxley is defending his belt once again taking on Karl Anderson on Night One of Fyter Fest. This is an interesting match as it not only a continuation of the existing feud between Mox and The Elite but also represents a chance at singles goal for Anderson. Aderson created a video to challenge Moxley. Claiming it makes him sick to see Mox with the belt Omega first held.
Karl Anderson has a long working relationship with NJPW and was one of the founding members of Bullet Club. He has never held a singles title for the promotion and will be looking to emulate his Elite team lead Kenny Omega in capturing the gold.
Jon Moxley is a fighting champion, however, and will not be giving up the gold cheaply. While it is unlikely to be a fair fight, Mox will have Eddie Kingston by his side. This should help even the odds somewhat. Whatever happens, this will not be the last time The Elite will have to contend with Mox and Kingston.
