SANADA Cleared For NJPW Return

Former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion SANADA has been cleared for an in-ring return after being withdrawn from competition due to a health concern.

The Just 5 Guys member last wrestled on April 26 before being pulled, but an official statement from New Japan Pro-Wrestling has confirmed that SANADA is free to return:

“SANADA, who has been absent from matches since April 27 in Hiroshima Sun Plaza Hall due to a health concern, has undergone evaluation at a Tokyo hospital and deemed medically cleared. SANADA will be working toward a return to the ring in the near future.

“SANADA and New Japan Pro-Wrestling appreciates fans’ support and understanding.”

Since dropping the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship to Tetsuya Naito at Wrestle Kingdom 18 on January 4, SANADA has mainly been focused on tag team competition, but did make it to the semi-final round of the 2024 New Japan Cup, where he lost to Hirooki Goto. SANADA also received a title rematch against Naito at The New Beginning in Sapporo in February, but ultimately came up short against Los Ingobernables de Japon’s leader.