If you noticed during the scheduled match-ups for the New Japan G1 Climax, IWGP United States Champion Jon Moxley wasn’t set to compete on the first night of the tournament, which is set in Dallas, Texas. Considering the fact that the company is struggling a bit to sell tickets at the big show in Dallas, it was surprising that the former WWE Champion wasn’t inserted into the A Block to help boost ticket sales.
However, it appears that Moxley is unable to work United States shows in New Japan thanks to his deal with All Elite Wrestling. Although Moxley is able to work New Japan cards under the terms of his AEW deal, the contract gives AEW exclusivity on his major US dates, which means Moxley won’t be able to work with Ring of Honor, either.
Prior to announcing the G1 schedule, New Japan realized Moxley would be unable to work the Dallas event, so they placed him into the tournament’s B Block, which will be set in Japan.
New Japan released the following official statement on its
website:
“Jon Moxley has been confirmed as a participant of G1 CLIMAX 29. Unfortunately, Moxley will miss the G1 CLIMAX 29 Opening Day taking place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX on July 6, 2019.
Additionally, he will not be in attendance at the G1 CLIMAX 29 Press Conference taking place on July 5, 2019.
Moxley will join the G1 tour on July 13 in Tokyo.
We apologize to fans who were looking forward to seeing Moxley in Dallas, and appreciate your understanding.”
It is believed that this rule also applies to Chris Jericho and would be the same for Kenny Omega if he was to work any dates for the promotion.