Kazuchika Okada Leaving NJPW, Reports on Joining AEW or WWE
Kazuchika Okada is departing from New Japan Pro-Wrestling following his contract ends on January 31, 2024.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling has declared that Kazuchika Okada will be parting ways with the organization once his contract concludes on January 31. Okada will wrap up his tenure by fulfilling three scheduled dates in February that were announced earlier.
Since 2007, Okada has been a stalwart of NJPW and is among the most accomplished wrestlers in the promotion’s history, boasting multiple IWGP World Heavyweight title (two) and IWGP Heavyweight title (five) wins. Notably, he holds the record for the longest reign as IWGP Heavyweight Champion.
Kazuchika Okada to leave New Japan Pro-Wrestlinghttps://t.co/FqviUJW8fP#njpw pic.twitter.com/OAPINjp9Zq
— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) January 19, 2024
Okada expressed his gratitude for his tenure since 2007 with New Japan Pro Wrestling and extended thanks to NJPW, its formidable opponents, and passionate fans. He also pledges to “make it rain” in every upcoming match.
Okada is also set for January 25 episode of TNA where he and Motor City Machine Guns will face The System’s Moose, Brian Myers, and Eddie Edwards in a six-man tag match.
Fightful Select has added in their report that Okada’s AEW is optimistic about signing Okada, with talks underway as he has participated in many matches in the promotion. WWE sources, unaware of discussions, expect the company to explore the possibility of signing him but remain uncertain about Okada’s inclination.
Fightful Select also added that a surprising Okada debut at WWE’s Royal Rumble is a great opportunity. However, NJPW permission is crucial for his participation in the event.
