He defeated Keiji Muto to win the IWGP Heavyweight Title then officially became the ace of New Japan Pro-Wrestling with his successful V1 defense against Shinsuke Nakamura yesterday, but Hiroshi Tanahashi wants to prove himself to be “global standard” and now has the chance. Tanahashi will make his V2 defense of the belt back at Sumo Hall on April 5th when New Japan runs “RESOLUTION ‘09″. This comes shortly after the New Japan Cup and the winner of that will then challenge the victor of Tanahashi vs. Angle on May 3rd at the Fukuoka International Center!

NJPW “RESOLUTION ‘09″, 4/5/09 (WPW/PPV)
Tokyo Ryogoku Kokugikan

1. IWGP Heavyweight Title: Hiroshi Tanahashi (c) vs. Kurt Angle

NJPW “WRESTLING DONTAKU 2009″, 5/3/09
Fukuoka International Center

1. IWGP Heavyweight Title: Winner of Tanahashi/Angle (c) vs. New Japan Cup 2009 winner