The biggest tournament of the summer is finally here, and it kicks off in grand fashion on WWE Network! The Cruiserweight Classic begins tonight, as Kota Ibushi enters the first round, taking on American Samoa’s Sean Maluta.

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Ibushi, known around the world as “The Golden Star,” had the WWE Universe wondering what he had planned when he was spotted in the crowd at NXT TakeOver: Dallas in April. Upon his entry into the CWC, Ibushi became an early favorite to take home the tournament. His big-time experience in his home country of Japan certainly gives him an advantage, as he’s faced the likes of Shinsuke Nakamura, Finn Bálor and Sami Zayn.

Tonight before CWC: Bálor vs. Nakamura in dream match

Though he may not have the worldwide renown of Ibushi, Sean Maluta is no pushover. Maluta is the nephew of WWE Hall of Famer Afa, and can count Roman Reigns and The Usos among his relatives, so he certainly has a pedigree worthy of the squared circle. On top of that, Maluta is a speedy grappler with an arsenal of devastating strikes, capped off by a savate kick that can knock anyone out on the spot.

Will Ibushi show the world why so many are picking him to win the Cruiserweight Classic, or will Maluta start the tournament with a huge upset? Find out tonight at 9/8 C, only on WWE Network!

Witness 32 of the best cruiserweight competitors from all over the globe battle to see who's best, tonight at 9/8 C, only on WWE Network.