Chris Jericho kicked off 2018 with a show-stealing performance against Kenny Omega at Wrestle Kingdom 12, and the following night continued his shocking run through the New Japan Pro Wrestling roster by attacking Tetsuya Naito.
Fast-forward six months, and Jericho actually defeated Naito at Dominion, the company’s second biggest show of the year, to become the IWGP Intercontinental Champion. The match was notable for being almost completely one-sided, as a new, more aggressive Y2J brutally attacked the Los Ingobernables de Japon leader and along the journey took out several of his faction mates as well.
One of those name caught in the crossfire of their rivalry is EVIL, the often silent powerhouse of the team. It was rumored that the two would face off with the title on the line, and when Jericho made a surprise return at this week’s NJPW King of Pro-Wrestling event, attacking EVIL yet again, the match was made official by New Japan management.
Jericho caught up with members of the Japanese media just seconds after delivering another beatdown to Los Ingobernables de Japon, and had the following to say about his upcoming title defense on Nov. 3rd at NJPW Power Struggle.
“EVIL gets his s–t in my business. He has to get involved and call me out – this is what happens. The greatest, most dominant Intercontinental Champion in any country, worldwide. United States, Canada and most importantly this s–thole Japan.”
“Jericho vs. EVIL [for the]IWGP Intercontinental Championship. Does that sound good for you? You want to have a big name and become a big star? Congratulations. I just made you famous. Just being in the ring with Chris Jericho puts you on a level you’ve never seen before. I’m not talking about Omega, or Naito, or Okada or Tanahashi – this is Chris Jericho, man! [I am a] future first ballot Hall of Famer, and I’m going to allow you to get your ass kicked by the G.O.A.T. in Osaka.”