 In February 2009, "brother" Yasshi left All Japan whilst Lance Hoyt, Michael Faith and former New Japan wrestler Minoru joined VDM.On March 1, Ryuji Hijikata turned on his partner Kaz Hayashi, joining VDM and returning to his masked persona Toshizo.In the spring, Minoru and Toshizo won the 2009 Junior Tag League and would go on and win the tournament, both also received shots at the Jr.