The following took place at NJPW’s Battle in the Valley at the San Jose Civic on Saturday night.
Mercedes Mone’ (formerly Sasha Banks in WWE), defeated KAIRI to capture the IWGP Women’s Title.
The match was initially set up at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17, where Mone’ made her NJPW debut, confronting KAIRI in the ring following her win against Tam Nakano. Mone then laid out KAIRI and as she held up the IWGP Women’s Title, then challenged KAIRI to a title match.
This was Mercedes’ first match since May 15, 2022. She and Naomi competed in a Tag Team Match at a WWE Sunday Stunner house show. The very next night backstage at WWE Raw, both Mercedes and Naomi walked out of the company, citing creative differences and lack of respect as the Women’s Tag Team Champions.
KAIRI was the inaugural IWGP Women’s Champion. She held the championship for just 91 days. She won the title when she defeated Mayu Iwatani at NJPW/Stardom Historic X-Over event back on November 20, 2022.
Jay White is officially finished with New Japan Pro Wrestling.
AEW star Eddie Kingston defeated White in a Loser Leaves NJPW match. The finish saw Kingston hit White with four spinning back-fists, a half and half suplex, and a Northern Lights Driver.
After the match, the fans chanted “Thank you Jay” as he got to his feet. White was about to address the crowd, but not before being attacked by David Finlay, who said, “F— your era.” Finlay then told White he threw it all away and that he feels at home in NJPW.
KENTA defeated Fred Rosser to win the NJPW Strong Openweight Championship. When it has looked like Rosser was going to retain the championship, the referee was knocked out. Juice Robinson then came out to the ring and knocked out Rosser with a roll of quarters. KENTA then hit Rosser with the Go 2 Sleep for the win.
Source: Fightful