Jon Moxley Vacates IWGP United States Championship

It’s been reported this morning that Jon Moxley has vacated the IWGP United States Championship.

As a result of travel issues caused by Typhoon Hagibis, numerous wrestlers are unable to attend today's NJPW’s King Of Pro Wrestling show. Among those missing the show is Jon Moxley, who was scheduled to defend his title against Juice Robinson. The decision has been made, in Moxley’s absence, to vacate the US Championship and crown a new champion in a match between Juice Robinson and Lance Archer.

Judging by the response online, some people believe this is in some way connected to Jon Moxley’s AEW commitments, and many believe this is incredibly harsh treatment by New Japan towards Moxley - but in the promotion's defence, it is a fairly commonplace decision. New Japan will strip a champion of their title if they are unable to make a scheduled defence despite the circumstances behind it. Togi Makabe forfeited the NEVER Openweight Championship when he caught the flu and had to cancel his match.

Moxley was the fifth person to hold the IWGP United States Champion. If Juice Robinson defeats Lance Archer tonight he will begin his third reign.