Tama Tonga has said his goodbyes to New Japan Pro Wrestling after losing the NJPW NEVER Openweight title at the recent ‘New Beginning’ event.
At today’s show in Nagoya, EVIL defeated Tonga to capture the title, which Tonga had won from EVIL at Wrestle Kingdom 18 earlier this month.
The match originally ended in a double DQ after Bullet Club, Guerrillas of Destiny, and Hontai members got involved before Tonga insisted the match was restarted.
In an emotional post-match promo, Tonga expressed his gratitude to the fans. He said,
“Thank you for giving me a chance to know you. I love you.”
Thank you @1TamaTonga🙋♂️
Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njnbg #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/93LLGuhsWh
— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 20, 2024
After his win at Wrestle Kingdom 18, Tonga announced that he would be finishing with New Japan this month to spend more time with his family.
