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Okada Confirms Positive COVID-19 Diagnosis
Former IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada has confirmed he tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month.
Several New Japan Pro-Wrestling stars were pulled from night two of Wrestling Dontaku due to COVID-19 protocols. At the time, NJPW only listed names who were pulled, but did not confirm who tested positive for the virus.
In an interview with Tokyo Sports, Okada revealed someone who participated in a match (Kazuchika Okada, SHO, YOH vs. Minoru Suzuki El Desperado Yoshinobu Kanemaru) on day one came down with a fever.
He was tested with a PCR test, which came back negative. He then had multiple antigen tests, which also came back negative. He then started to feel unwell, and lost his sense of taste. He took another test, which came back positive.
During his time off, he said he didn’t have the energy to train, so he binged on Korean dramas instead.
“I’ve rested a lot and my taste has returned. I’d like to come back in a healthy way, so everyone please look forward to it.”
He says he feels better now, and is looking forward to returning to the ring. No specific date for a return was provided.