Number one contender for IWGP Junior Heavyweight title crowned at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20
In the fourth official match of the night at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20, fans witnessed El Desperado, Kosei Fujita, Taiji Ishimori, and Sho in a four-way match to determine the number one contender for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship. Following a closely contested fight and several near falls, El Desperado stood on top and earned the title shot.
On Sunday, January 4th, 2026, at the prestigious Tokyo Dome, Desperado overcame Taiji Ishimori, Kosei Fujita, and Sho in a brief seven-minute match after landing a Tiger Driver and Pinche Loco, to take home the victory.
Midway through the match, fans saw DOUKI and Yoshinbou Kanemaru trying to interfere and help Sho win, to keep his IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship safe from any legitimate contenders. However, Robbie Eagles, Robbie X, and Kuukai showed up in time to help Desperado secure the win against the heels.
Tonight’s victory means Desperado will have his eighth singles match against DOUKI. The duo has faced off several times since 2020, including in a trio of title matchups since 2024. DOUKI’s current run with the title began when he defeated Desperado back in October 2025 at the Korakuen Hall.
It is currently unknown when El Desperado will challenge DOUKI for the championship.
Shounak Chakrabarti is an experienced sports journalist with a lifelong passion for athletics and storytelling. He holds a Master’s Degree in International Journalism from the University of Leeds and joined F4WOnline in 2025.
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