Kevin Kelly Departs NJPW Earlier Than Expected

Kevin Kelly is gone from New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

The promotion announced today that Kevin Kelly has departed NJPW to "pursue outside opportunities." The original plan was for Kelly to finish up with New Japan following Wrestle Kingdom 18 and New Year Dash on January 4 and January 5 but the commentator will be unable to make the shows because of family commitments. 

NJPW thanked Kelly for his time with the promotion, writing: "New Japan Pro-Wrestling joins fans in their gratitude for the work Kevin has done to grow the English-speaking audience for NJPW, and for countless memorable calls over the years. We wish Kevin the very best in his future."

Kelly had been the lead announcer for NJPW's English broadcast since 2015. He has been a commentator on AEW Collision since the show's debut in June 2023, with Kelly later announcing he would be leaving New Japan because his wife didn't want to be alone anymore. His NJPW role would see him spend several weeks at a time in Japan. 

Kelly has been replaced by Walker Stewart, who provides commentary alongside Chris Charlton.