Takashi Sugiura
On March 5, 2006, Kenta faced a major challenge in Kenta Kobashi, which saw him lose following a "Burning Hammer". This was followed by a loss of the Junior Heavyweight title on June 4 to Takashi Sugiura. This saw Kenta shift his attention to the GHC Heavyweight Championship, challenging Naomichi Marufuji, losing in a match which won numerous awards and accolades from the wrestling media.