Kota Ibushi’s health status has been clarified by NJPW.
In a statement today the promotion revealed that Ibushi has been diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is what happens when bacteria carrying food, stomach acid or saliva is inhaled into the lungs.
It was originally reported that Ibushi was out of action due to side effects from a COVID-19 vaccination but that assessment has been proven false.
“Aspiration pneumonia has no connection to COVID vaccinations and Ibushi’s illness is not a result of his inoculation. We apologise for any misunderstanding. Ibushi has also tested negative for COVID-19,” stated NJPW.
Due to his illness, Ibushi will not be appearing at the July 22 and 23 in Osaka, as well as July 24 in Nagoya events.
“A final decision on his participation at Wrestle Grand Slam on July 25 will be made after assessing Ibushi’s recovery,” stated NJPW.
Tomoaki Honma will be taking Ibushi’s place and teaming with Master Wato against Shingo Takagi and Bushi on the tour.