Originally published at https://www.postwrestling.com/2024/01/03/katsuhiko-nakajima-def-nxts-charlie-dempsey-to-retain-ajpw-triple-crown-heavyweight-title/
The Triple Crown remains in Nakajima’s possession.
Closing out All Japan Pro Wrestling’s 1/3 show was the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship match between the champion Katsuhiko Nakajima and WWE NXT talent Charlie Dempsey.
On 12/31, Nakajima bested Kento Miyahara and retained the Triple Crown to set up the title defense against Dempsey. It was Nakajima defeating Dempsey to hold onto the championship and post-match, they shook hands. They are now 1-1 in victories over each other. Dempsey scored a win over Nakajima in a tag match.
After Dempsey exited the ring, Nakajima was approached by Shotaro Ashino.
In May 2023, Ashino was sidelined with a fractured left forearm. He had previously won the Champion Carnival tournament and was going to get his shot at the Triple Crown. He made his return to in-ring action on 12/31 and is looking to get his championship match.