In the main event of today’s Michinoku Pro show at Yahaba Town Citizens General Gymnasium, Rui Hyugaji defeated Ringo Yamaya to claim the vacant Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Championship to become the new Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Champion. Hyugaji’s victory marks his fourth reign as champion, surpassing his own record.
Although an established main eventer and a future legend of Michinoku Pro, it was not an easy win for the veteran Rui Hyugaji, who captured the Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Championship after wrestling Ringo Yamaya for a little over 20 minutes. Yamaya, who is a co-holder of the Tohoku Tag Team Championship, is frustrated by the loss, but plans to continue to aim for Michinoku Pro’s coveted singles title.
A championship with an impressive legacy
In August 2002, Michinoku Pro made history by crowning its first Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Champion. The company’s singles title was won by Dick Togo.
Since then, the Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Championship has been held by some of the biggest names that have been involved in the Japanese wrestling scene, including The Great Sasuke, Kenoh, Atlantis, TAKA Michinoku, Super Delfin, KAGETORA, Takeshi Minamino, current champion Rui Hyugaji and the previous champion, Fujita Hayato, who broke Hyugaji’s record for the longest reign as champion before relinquishing the championship due to illness. Now champion again, perhaps Hyugaji will reclaim his record during this current reign.
No rest for a champion
With the prestigious Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Championship firmly in his grasp, Rui Hyugaji now turns his attention to his next challenge: a match against El Pantera Jr. on November 17th, less than 24 hours after winning the championship. Hyugaji’s record-breaking fourth reign is a testament to his enduring skill, experience, and dedication to the industry. He will now face a tough challenge from the man who won the Fukumen World League tournament to earn the first shot at the new champion. This high-stake match promises to be an encounter where both Rui Hyugaji and El Pantera Jr. will hold nothing back.