Kota Ibushi’s return announced, but not in AEW
AEW star Kota Ibushi is set to make a blockbuster return to a major promotion. He has been absent from the Jakcosnville-based promotion since November 2023.
The 42-year-old star made his AEW debut during the 2023 Bloods and Guts contest as he teamed up with Kenny Omega, Hangman Page, and The Young Bucks. He signed with the promotion a couple of months later. He was last seen on TV in November of last year when he participated in an Eight-Peson Street Fight Tag Match on Dynamite.
Unfortunately, Kota Ibushi injured his ankles during a match against Naomichi Marufuji in January 2024. Despite making his in-ring return to GLEAT in July this year, he hasn't returned to AEW yet. The show also features huge names like Ricochet, El Hijo Del Vikingo, and Parker Boudreaux.
The former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion has been announced for the upcoming GLEAT show on October 6. His opponent is yet to be announced.
Kota Ibushi may not return to AEW alone.
The former AEW World Champion has been absent from the Jacksonville-based promotion for over nine months. A few months ago, he underwent surgery for diverticulitis and hasn't recovered yet. Meanwhile, Kota has been out for almost half a year due to his leg injury. A report shed light on the wrestlers' return schedule.
A recent report claimed that Kota won't return until Omgeha recovers and is ready to enter the ring. However, no timetable for The Cleaner has been provided yet. The stars have been training together.
Both Omega and Ibushi have had a history since NJPW. The duo were named Golden Lovers and won multiple titles in different promotions. They have been aligned since the 42-year-old star joined the Tony Khan-led promotion.
With the reports suggesting the stars will be returning soon, AEW must have plans for them to work together once again.