Kota Ibushi Admits Career Is in Its Final Stages Amid Lingering Injuries

Kota Ibushi, one of wrestling’s most captivating performers, is openly grappling with the toll of his injuries, admitting he’s nearing the end of his career.

After suffering a right tibiofibular ligament tear and a right ankle lateral ligament complex injury in January, Ibushi has only competed in four official matches since August. His most recent appearance came on December 1 at Marvelous, where he teamed with Leo Isaka and Takumi Iroha to defeat Chigusa Nagayo, Masato Tanaka, and Titus Alexander.

In an emotional statement to Tokyo Sports, Ibushi expressed the precarious state of his health. “I’m at the end of my legs, and it could end at any time,” he said. “I wanted to preserve the time I had left before I couldn’t do it anymore, and that’s why I was allowed to participate today. I’m really on the edge, but I want to finish contributing to the world of pro wrestling, so I’m participating in various events.”

Ibushi’s future in AEW remains unclear. Though he is signed with the company, he hasn’t wrestled on AEW television since the November 15, 2023, episode of Dynamite.

Addressing his participation in the Japanese wrestling scene, Ibushi revealed a selfless motivation for continuing his career. “AEW will be getting visas again next year, but I thought the Japanese wrestling industry was somehow going down, and I wanted to raise it up. That’s why we are doing everything for free this time,” he explained.

While fans hope to see Ibushi back in AEW, his focus remains on giving back to the wrestling world during what could be his final stretch in the ring.