El Desperado Withdrawn From NJPW Super Junior Tag League Due to Injury

Medical evaluations confirmed that El Desperado is suffering from a hernia and spinal canal stenosis, forcing the New Japan Pro-Wrestling star to withdraw from the upcoming tournament. As one-half of the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions, the competitor is not cleared to compete after NJPW announced on its website on Thursday that he has been pulled from the Super Junior Tag League.

Tournament Changes and Substitute Partner

With the tournament kicking off on Saturday on New Japan World for subscribers, Young Lion Masatora Yasuda will now team with Mistico as a substitute in his place. El Desperado stated that he wanted to give Yasuda the opportunity to team alongside Mistico—whom he referred to as a “global megastar”—to see what he can do. The champion added that fans should view the Young Lion’s inclusion as a key step to the future of NJPW, noting that he trusts Mistico to pull through and show up for the fans.

Injury Details and Physical Toll

Detailing his physical condition, El Desperado revealed that he is currently unable to walk, stand, or sit upright for long periods of time due to the injury affecting his left leg. He experienced tingling and odd sensations starting in March, while the pain began in June and worsened over the previous few months. Although he hoped to wrestle through the end of the year, he stated that his body has reached its limits, and apologized to fans.

Super Junior Tag League Schedule

The 12-team Super Junior Tag League begins on Saturday and will culminate at NJPW Power Struggle on November 3.