IMPACT and NJPW Collide in Epic Multiverse United 2 Event
On August 20, 2023, IMPACT Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling joined forces once again for the highly anticipated co-branded event, Multiverse United 2: For Whom the Bell Tolls. Held at the iconic 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, this event showcased the best talent from both promotions in a series of thrilling matches.
The action kicked off with the Countdown to Multiverse United 2, featuring an exciting six-man tag team match. Rocky Romero, Master Wato, and Ryusuke Taguchi faced off against Joe Hendry, Yuya Uemura, and Heath. The match was fast-paced and high-flying, with impressive moves from all competitors. In the end, Joe Hendry, Yuya Uemura, and Heath emerged victorious with a well-executed top rope crossbody by Uemura.
The Digital Media Championship was on the line as Kenny King defended his title against Yoshinobu Kanemaru. The match was hard-hitting and intense, with both competitors showcasing their skills. In a surprising turn of events, Kenny King avoided the Amber Mist and connected with his signature move, the Royal Flush, to secure the victory and retain his championship.
The Jr Heavyweight / X-Division Scramble match was a chaotic and action-packed affair, featuring Chris Sabin, Kevin Knight, Frankie Kazarian, BUSHI, YOH, Rich Swann, MAO, and El Desperado. With so many competitors in the ring, the match was filled with high spots and near falls. Ultimately, Chris Sabin emerged as the winner after hitting his devastating finishing move, the Cradle Shock, on YOH.
In a hard-hitting South Philly Street Fight, Sami Callihan took on DOUKI in a brutal encounter. The match featured the use of steel chairs, kendo sticks, and other weapons. Both competitors pushed each other to the limit, but it was Sami Callihan who emerged victorious after hitting the Cactus Driver 97 through multiple chairs.
The IMPACT World Championship was on the line as Alex Shelley defended his title against Hiroshi Tanahashi. The match was a technical masterpiece, with both competitors showcasing their skills and targeting each other’s weaknesses. In the end, Alex Shelley hit his devastating finishing move, the Shellshock, to secure the victory and retain his championship.
Other notable matches included TMDK (Zack Sabre Jr & Shane Haste) taking on IMPACT (Moose & Eddie Edwards), Giulia defending her NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship against Deonna Purrazzo, Gisele Shaw, and Momo Kohgo, and Bullet Club (Ace Austin, Chris Bey, David Finlay, Alex Coughlin, KENTA, and Clark Connors) facing off against The World (PCO, Josh Alexander, Tanga Loa, Tama Tonga, The DKC, and ELP).
The event concluded with Lio Rush and Trey Miguel facing off against Hiromu Takahashi and Mike Bailey. After a hard-fought battle, Lio Rush and Trey Miguel emerged victorious. Lio Rush then set his sights on the IWGP Jr Heavyweight Championship, challenging Hiromu Takahashi for the title.
Overall, Multiverse United 2: For Whom the Bell Tolls was a night of incredible action and unforgettable moments. The collaboration between IMPACT Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling continues to deliver thrilling matchups and showcase the best talent from both promotions.
Order the replay of Multiverse United 2: For Whom the Bell Tolls <a href="https://www.fite.tv/watch/impact-and-njpw-mult