Rocky Romero
In June, Taylor took part in secret TV tapings at NJPW's Los Angeles Dojo for a new show named "Lion's Break Collision". On June 13, Taylor made his New Japan Pro-Wrestling debut as Rust Taylor, teaming with Rocky Romero in a losing effort against TJP and Clark Connors. At the same tapings, Taylor got his first win in New Japan by defeating The DKC.