Hiroshi Tanahashi Defeats AEW Superstar to Win IWGP US Heavyweight Title at New Japan Resurgence

The new IWGP United States Championship is Hiroshi Tanahashi after he defeated Lance Archer at NJPW Resurgence.

Hiroshi Tanahashi challenged former champion Hikuleo with a video message on July 28th, 2021 on AEW Dynamite. However, in the same episode, Lance Archer defeated Hikuleo and became the new IWGP United States Champion. However, he accepted Tanahashi’s challenge as well.

At Resurgence’s main event, Lance Archer and Hiroshi Tanahashi fought with all their efforts for the title. Initially, former champion Archer was dominating the fight, but Tanahashi came back strong. Ultimately, Tanahashi targeted Archer’s right leg leg and secured the win.

Currently, Hiroshi Tanahashi is the only competitor to have held the IWGP Intercontinental Championship, IWGP Heavyweight United States Championship, and NEVER Openweight Championship.

Hiroshi Tanashi believes there will be more between Japan and America

During his conversation with Sports Illustrated, the new champion revealed that with COVID-19 under control, he believes a lot more travelling between Japan and America is a possibility.

“I think, now more than ever, it’s important for all of pro wrestling to come together and get past all the troubles COVID has presented, I think the best way we can do that is to bring the fans the best possible matches, and those dream-match scenarios. I think being able to wrestle in all these organizations can only be a good thing.”

“Predict that once COVID is behind us, you’re going to see even more movement and exchanges between Japan and America. The U.S. Heavyweight Title is the key to those doors being unlocked, and that’s what makes it extra important.”

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Tanahashi revealed a dream opponent

The pro-wrestler revealed he wants to wrestle Jon Moxley. After watching Moxley’s match against Nagata, he wants to be in the ring with a skilled professional like him.

“I’d love to wrestle Moxley someday. Nagata can really do it all. He can get rough with you or he can rely on his perfect technique. Moxley was able to overcome that and win, and that shows how great he is.” H/t Sports Illustrated

Even though a match between Moxley and Tanahashi may not be an immediate occurrence however, it will be interesting to watch the two in action in a ring!