AEW star Kenny Omega recently explained the reason behind his appearance in NJPW.

‘The Cleaner’ dropped hints about his comeback to the promotion during his appearance at NJPW Power Struggle. He had also stated that he wanted to compete in NJPW again.

Speaking with Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Kenny Omega explained his decision to make his in-ring return in New Japan Pro Wrestling rather than AEW. He said that NJPW helped him become gain popularity internationally. The former AEW World Champion stated that he wanted the opportunity to compete in the Tokyo Dome as a way to repay them for helping him become the big name that he is today. He explained:

“A lot of people, not only in Japan but internationally, didn’t know who I was until New Japan. So I really do owe New Japan a gigantic thank you. I feel that there’s a debt I have to repay in some way, shape, or form. And if making my comeback at the Tokyo Dome is a way to repay that, if it can help their business in any way, then I’m more than happy to do that.”

During NJPW Power Struggle, Kenny Omega had also talked about his recovery from diverticulitis and stated that he’d love to make an in-ring comeback at Wrestle Dynasty on January 5th. He added that he wishes to face one of the young talents from New Japan at the event.

However, things got heated when Omega got backstage. He came across Gabe Kidd. The reigning NJPW Strong Openweight Champion took some shots at him and it led to a massive brawl between the two.

This is the closest Kenny Omega has come to getting physical since December of last year. It was also the first time Omega has gotten physical at a wrestling event since he was assaulted by The Elite in May.