Is Wario World a direct sequel to Wario Land 4?

[ShyGuyXXL]

In the intro to Wario World it is stated that the Black Jewel was hidden inside ancient ruins by the Spritelings of the Sacred Forest (and later stolen by Wario).

In the previous game, Wario Land 4 Wario finds lots of treasure inside ancient ruins located in a forest.

Could that have been the same ruins in the same forest? Is the forest of the golden pyramid "the" sacred forest?
Or do you think it's more likely that they are referring to a different adventure?

 

[Just a Wario Fan]

Wow, I never thought about that. Now you tell, it seems plausible to me.

 

[CM30]

That's an interesting idea I've never thought of before. I guess it could be a direct sequel?

 

[JS Shantae]

I like the idea, and there's nothing that contradicts it