When new Open The Freedom Gate Champion BxB Hulk boarded the plane at Philadelphia International Airport following DGUSA's Nov. 28th event his mind was on his first defense- scheduled for January 23rd in Chicago against Dragon Kid. When Hulk landed in Japan everything changed.

Susumu Yokosuka issued a challenge to the inaugural Open The Freedom Gate Champion to put the title on the line immediately. Yokosuka wanted a title shot in Hokkaido, Sapporo at Teisen Hall on December 6th. Hulk, seeing this as an opportunity to be a fighting champion, agreed without hesitation.

Hulk went on to defeat Yokosuka in 22:05. It was a very competitive bout that saw Yokosuka almost win the title. Now Hulk's confidence is at an all-time high after winning the tournament in Philadelphia and then successfully defending the belt on the other side of the world in just an eight day time span.

Hulk, regarded as the top of the class of the new generation of Dragon Gate stars, will now focus on his defense against Dragon Gate veteran Dragon Kid in Chicago. Dragon Kid is very capable of winning the Open The Freedom Gate Title due to his experience and exciting style. Dragon Kid currently is undefeated in singles competition in DGUSA. Hulk, who has already given the title international credibility, will look to continue his momentum during his debut in the Windy City.

"I am very proud to represent Dragon Gate USA as Champion," Hulk said through an interpreter after the Yokosuka match. "Now the fans of both the United States and Japan understand how important this title is to me. I look forward to showing the fans of Chicago that I will be a great Champion."