Shota Umino Cleared For NJPW G1 Climax 34

New Japan Pro-Wrestling star Shota Umino has confirmed that he's ready to return in time for the annual G1 Climax tournament, after recovering from neck and hip injuries sustained last month.

Umino revealed the news in a video message on the official NJPW Global Twitter/X account, stating:

"I'm announcing that I will return to the ring for the G1 Climax. A lot of people have given me their support over the last month, and I put all I had into rehabbing and treatment to be in the G1. This isn't a decision I've taken lightly. To do that would be an insult to the other entrants, as well as those who couldn't make the cut. 

"I will be back at 100% and full strength. I will carry that determination with me all the way through the tournament. I will come out on top of A Block, win the G1 and then stand on the Tokyo Dome stage."

This year's G1 Climax 34 begins this Saturday (July 20), culminating on August 18, and sees a return to the traditional two-block format. The full line-up of entrants can be found here.