At The New Beginning USA event in Trenton, New Jersey, Konosuke Takeshita defeated El Phantasmo to become the new NJPW World Television Champion. The contest, held on February 27, 2026, featured a 15-minute time limit, concluding in a draw before Takeshita secured victory during additional time.
Intense Championship Match Goes Beyond Standard Time
The match between Takeshita and reigning champion El Phantasmo stretched the usual 15-minute limit, marking the second instance these two competitors went the distance for the World TV Title, having previously done so at NJPW Wrestling Dontaku in May 2025. After the time expired, Phantasmo requested an extra five minutes, which Takeshita agreed to. Takeshita ultimately ended the bout by executing his finishing move, the ‘Raging Fire,’ ending ELP’s title reign at 305 days.
Takeshita’s Growing Legacy in NJPW
This victory adds another accolade to Takeshita’s already impressive NJPW career, which includes holding the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, NEVER Openweight Championship, and winning the prestigious G1 Climax tournament in 2025. His acquisition of the World Television Championship further solidifies his status among NJPW’s top competitors.
Mutual Respect Demonstrated After the Bout
Following the match, El Phantasmo showed sportsmanship by bowing to Takeshita, who returned the gesture with respect, highlighting the honorable nature of their rivalry and the significance of the title change.
Wider Context Within NJPW and Wrestling Community
The New Beginning USA event also featured notable matches such as Oleg Boltin ending Tomohiro Ishii’s reign as STRONG Openweight Champion and high-profile encounters like Yota Tsuji versus Andrade El Idolo. These moments, along with Takeshita’s championship win, reflect ongoing shifts within NJPW’s competitive landscape.
