Yota Tsuji Open To Working AEW Matches As Long As They're Non-Title

Yota Tsuji has clarified his stance on working for All Elite Wrestling noting he would perform in an AEW ring, under the right circumstances.

The IWGP Heavyweight Champion has been outspoken in his criticism of the AEW-New Japan Pro-Wrestling partnership, with reports suggesting that comments about wanting the deal to be terminated were legitimate. Tsuji has wrestled once for AEW as part of the working relationship with NJPW, but notably did not take part in the 2025 Forbidden Door pay per view.

It seems as though Tsuji has softened his stance, saying the following to Tokyo Sports about the possibility of appearing in an AEW ring:



“I think many people have the impression that I boycotted the ‘Forbidden Door’ joint event in June, but I didn’t boycott it. I just don’t intend to easily have an IWGP match against a wrestler from another organisation, but conversely, if it’s not a title match, I think it’s fine for me to go to AEW. If someone picks a fight with me, I’ll accept the challenge even if the belt isn’t on the line,” Tsuji said.

Tsuji previously wrestled at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2024, teaming with Hiromu Takahashi and Titan in a loss to Mistico and the Lucha Bros. Tsuji subsequently worked NJPW x AEW Wrestle Dynasty in January 2025, successfully defending the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship against Jack Perry.