Kota Ibushi understands his wrestling career is coming to an end.
The AEW star has faced with a number of injuries in recent years, including an ankle injury suffered in January at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s New Year 2024 performance. He faced Naomichi Marufuji in the main event. Ibushi sustained an ankle injury early in the match. He underwent surgery and returned to the ring in July. Since then, he has only worked a few matches.
Kota left New Japan Pro Wrestling in 2023 and signed with AEW. He has not wrestled for AEW since WrestleDream in October 2024.
Ibushi spoke with Tokyo Sports this week about his career and future plans in the sector.
“My legs are at their limit, and this might end at any time. I wanted to keep going till I couldn’t anymore. I’m really at my limit, but I want to contribute to the field of professional wrestling before I retire, so I’m currently appearing in a variety of venues.”
Ibushi earlier indicated that he will not return to AEW unless Kenny Omega does. Omega returns to the ring on January 5 for AEW x NJPW: Wrestle Dynasty.
