Lance Archer won his first singles title in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, since joining the company in 2014. “The American Psycho” defeated Juice Robinson for the vacant IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship at Monday’s King of Pro-Wrestling.
Jon Moxley was originally set to defend the title against Robinson, but was unable to travel to Japan due to complications from Typhoon Hagibis. By the rules of NJPW, if a champion is advertised for a title defense and cannot, for whatever reason, make the scheduled defense, they are stripped of the belt.
Zack Sabre Jr. was also unable to make Monday’s event, and a number of talent arrived the day of the show, including commentator Kevin Kelly.
New Japan issued the following statement on their official website:
Due to travel delays as a result of this weekend’s Typhoon Hagibis, we regret to announce that Jon Moxley will be unable to appear at Ryogoku Sumo Hall for King of Pro Wrestling on Monday October 14.
As Moxley is unable to wrestle in a scheduled championship defence, he has relinquished the IWGP United States Championship.
In place of the scheduled Jon Moxley versus Juice Robinson No Disqualification match tonight for the United States Championship, a match will be contested for the now vacant title.
Card change details:
IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship No DQ Match
Jon Moxley (champion) vs Juice Robinson (challenger)
IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship
Lance Archer vs Juice Robinson
The winner will be crowned the seventh IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion
We sincerely apologize to fans looking forward to seeing Moxley wrestle, and appreciate your understanding.
