TJP, the first-ever WWE Cruiserweight Champion, kicks off 2018 by returning to action and answering The Stamina Monster's call for competition.

Former Cruiserweight Champion Akira Tozawa issued an open challenge in hopes for fresh competiion on the first WWE 205 Live of 2018. Much to The Stamina Monster’s surprise, the first-ever WWE Cruiserweight Champion TJP – who hasn’t competed in nearly three months – answered the call and immediately charged his opponent, showing his arrogance hasn’t changed.

Despite enjoying an early advantage, The Duke of Dab was soon overwhelmed by the speed and intensity of Tozawa. The hard-hitting style of the Japanese Superstar forced TJP outside of the ring to recover. Looking to keep his momentum, Tozawa prepared his diving headbutt to the outside but was caught by a kick from The Fil-Am Flam.

The winner of the Cruiserweight Classic began targeting his opponent’s shoulder – which Tozawa injured last year – and used a combination of strikes and submission maneuvers to maximize pressure. Showing off his resilience and living up to his Stamina Monster moniker, Tozawa battled through the pain and reclaimed control of the contest with the support of the WWE Universe.

However, the damage was done and a slow ascent to the top rope from Tozawa allowed TJP to recover, using the ring post to knock down his opponent and execute The Detonation Kick for the win.