BIGBOSS Shimizu Returns To Dragongate After Being Away Since November 2024

He’s back after a full year-plus away.

Kobe Sambo Hall is playing host to Dragongate Japan Pro-Wrestling’s January 9th show. The event is going to feature the in-ring return of BIGBOSS Shimizu, who came back into the fold of the promotion at their 1/8 show.

Shimizu will be teaming with Kzy, U-T, and Strong Machine J to take on Madoka Kikuta, Kota Minoura, Jason Lee, and KAI.

【対戦カード情報】#OpenTheNewYearGate2026
1月9日(金) 18:00試合開始
#神戸サンボーホール

▼BIGBOSS清水復帰戦#ストロングマシーンJ #Kzy #U_T #BIGBOSS清水
vs#菊田円 #箕浦康太 #ジェイソンリー #KAI_kof

▼全対戦カードhttps://t.co/587spBLrTC#DRAGONGATE https://t.co/wFTJbnQIq8 pic.twitter.com/XSz8EjNWoX

— DRAGONGATE (@dragongate_pro) January 8, 2026

In November 2024, Dragongate suspended Shimizu for a suspected contract violation. That month was when he last wrestled for the promotion.

In May 2025, Shimizu formally requested to step away from in-ring competition for the remainder of 2025, and Dragongate granted his request.