After years of coming up just short, Hirooki Goto finally reached the mountaintop at The New Beginning in Osaka, defeating Zack Sabre Jr. to become the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion for the first time.
For Goto, this wasn’t just a victory—it was a career-defining moment, as the man once known as NJPW’s “almost-champion” finally shed the “almost.”
A Long Road to the Top
Goto earned this title shot back at Wrestle Kingdom 19 by winning the New Japan Ranbo, and rather than wait for a “better time,” he decided that February 11 was THE night to take his shot.
- Zack Sabre Jr. had already survived defenses against Shota Umino and Ricochet in 2025, but Goto was determined to be the one to end his reign.
- For 20 minutes, the two battled in a war of striking and submission mastery, with Goto’s children watching from ringside, hoping to see their father finally claim the prize that had always eluded him.
- And then, it happened.
When the final bell rang, the crowd exploded with cheers and tears, as Goto finally held the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship high.
A Historic Milestone for Goto
By capturing the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, Goto now joins an elite group of NJPW legends who have held versions of the company’s Triple Crown—having already reigned as IWGP Intercontinental and NEVER Openweight Champion.
However, because the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship was introduced in 2021, Goto becomes the first man in NJPW history to complete this version of the Triple Crown.
From “almost-champion” to historic champion—what a ride.
What’s Next?
Goto’s celebration won’t last long, because he already has challengers waiting:
🔥 March 6 – NJPW’s 53rd Anniversary Event: Goto vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi (one of the many men who denied him the title in the past)
🔥 April 5 – Sakura Genesis: If he survives Tanahashi, he will defend against the winner of the New Japan Cup (March 20 final).
Goto finally climbed the mountain, but now the real test begins—staying there.