WWE released a lot of Superstars in September 2023, and Doph Ziggler’s name was arguably the most shocking to make the list. Although Ziggler stayed silent about his next move in pro wrestling, fans found out what he had in store at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18 event.
Dolph Ziggler’s NJPW Debut
Nic Nemeth, also known as Dolph Ziggler from his long WWE run, made a significant impression with his brother Ryan Nemeth during their debut in New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 18.
Their entrance before the Winner Take All IWGP & NJPW Strong Tag Team Title Match caught everyone by surprise, not only astonishing the audience but also creating a buzz of excitement backstage among fellow wrestlers.
As the Nemeth brothers took front-row seats to witness the highly anticipated showdown, their unannounced presence backstage brought shock from both fans and the pro wrestling world.
.@HEELZiggler appears in NJPW.
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— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024
Internal Reaction Nic Nemeth’s NJPW Debut
Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net provided an interesting note about Nic Nemeth’s appearance at Wrestle Kingdom. It was said that this was a surprise backstage at the Tokyo Dome as well.
Sources backstage at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18 relayed to me that Nic Nemeth’s appearance was just as much a surprise backstage as it was for everyone else. One source stated, “Where the f*ck was he hiding?” Another source added, “Never saw him or anything until he went out.”
The Wrestle Kingdom 18 event marked a new chapter for the Nemeths, leaving an indelible impression with their unexpected and strategic debut in the world of New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Ryan Nemeth in AEW
Ryan Nemeth has appeared for AEW over the past few years, with infrequent appearences in recent months. His most recent match took place on the November 4th episode of ROH on HonorClub, where he, along with Peter Avalon, lost an eight-man tag team match.
Ryan Nemeth was also a regular participant on Being the Elite, a show that concluded late last year. At this time, it appears that his name has a lot more hype in NJPW after Wrestle Kingdom 18.