Major League Wrestling returned to Chicago on Saturday night for one of its biggest events of the year, Saturday Night SuperFight 2026, delivering championship drama, international talent, and several memorable moments.
Taking place at Cicero Stadium on November 7, the event featured an impressive lineup of competitors, including stars from New Japan Pro-Wrestling, established MLW veterans, and emerging talents looking to make their mark.
With several important developments potentially shaping the promotion’s future, SuperFight gave fans plenty to discuss. However, three moments stood above the rest. Here are the top three moments of MLW Saturday Night SuperFight 2026.
3. Yota Tsuji Makes an Impressive MLW Debut Against Trevor Lee
One of the most anticipated matches heading into SuperFight featured New Japan Pro-Wrestling star Yota Tsuji making his MLW debut against Trevor Lee. With MLW continuing to strengthen its relationship with NJPW, bringing in a performer of Tsuji’s caliber represented another exciting development for the promotion.
Lee provided an excellent opponent, utilizing his experience and technical abilities to challenge the NJPW star throughout their encounter. However, Tsuji eventually demonstrated why he has become one of Japan’s most exciting talents. After surviving Lee’s offense, Tsuji connected with a devastating spear before finishing his opponent with the Fire Blaster to secure an impressive debut victory.
Beyond the match itself, Tsuji’s appearance represented something much bigger. Earlier in the evening, MLW CEO Court Bauer introduced NJPW Chairman Naoki Sugabayashi and announced that MLW, NJPW, and CMLL are collaborating on a special project for 2027.
Although details remain limited, the announcement suggests that fans could see even more international matchups moving forward. Tsuji’s successful debut demonstrated the possibilities these partnerships offer, making his victory one of SuperFight’s standout moments.
2. Austin Aries and Matt Riddle Battle to a Controversial Time-Limit Draw
Austin Aries and Matt Riddle entered SuperFight with the MLW National Openweight Championship hanging in the balance, and their encounter proved to be one of the evening’s most entertaining contests.
With both competitors possessing extensive experience, expectations were understandably high. Aries approached the match with his usual combination of technical wrestling and calculated aggression, while Riddle relied on his striking, submissions, and explosive offense.
Throughout the encounter, Aries focused on wearing down Riddle, particularly targeting his leg to limit the challenger’s mobility. However, Riddle refused to go away, repeatedly fighting back and coming dangerously close to capturing the championship. Unfortunately for the challenger, time proved to be his biggest enemy.
The 30-minute time limit expired before either competitor could secure a decisive victory, resulting in a draw and allowing Aries to retain his championship. Naturally, the controversial conclusion didn’t sit particularly well with Riddle.
When Aries refused to grant an additional five minutes, Riddle responded by knocking out the champion and taking possession of the championship belt. Although Aries officially remained champion, Riddle made it clear that their issues were far from resolved.
The finish leaves MLW with an opportunity to revisit the rivalry, potentially with a stipulation guaranteeing a definitive winner.
1. Josh Bishop Dethrones Killer Kross to Become MLW World Heavyweight Champion
Without question, the biggest moment of SuperFight came in the main event, when Josh Bishop defeated Killer Kross in a brutal Last Man Standing Match to capture the MLW World Heavyweight Championship.
Entering the encounter, Kross had established himself as one of MLW’s most dangerous competitors, enjoying a lengthy championship reign. However, Bishop appeared determined to prove he belonged at the top of the promotion.
With the championship on the line, both competitors embraced the violent stipulation, utilizing chairs, tables, trash cans, and other weapons in an effort to keep their opponent down for the referee’s ten-count. Kross delivered several devastating attacks, including a spear through a table and a piledriver onto chairs. Despite the punishment, Bishop refused to stay down.
Eventually, Bishop connected with an Exit 187 through a table, leaving the champion struggling to recover. As Kross desperately attempted to use a chair to regain his footing, Bishop kicked it away, preventing the champion from beating the referee’s count. Just like that, Kross’ championship reign was over.
Bishop had accomplished the biggest victory of his career, becoming the new MLW World Heavyweight Champion and ushering in a new era for the promotion. With Donovan Dijak already confronting Bishop earlier in the evening, potential challengers are beginning to emerge.
SuperFight featured several exciting developments, but nothing surpassed Bishop’s championship victory. It was a career-defining moment for the new champion and the perfect conclusion to one of MLW’s biggest events of 2026.