EVIL Officially Leaving NJPW

EVIL is officially on his way out of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, with the promotion announcing that the 39-year-old will finish up with NJPW when his contract expires at the end of January.

NJPW wrote:

"Thank you for supporting New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

"After careful consideration and discussions with NJPW management, EVIL, who has been a long standing member of the NJPW roster will leave New Japan Pro-Wrestling at the expiry of his contract at the end of January 2026. 

"We apologise to fans for the sudden nature of this announcement. New Japan Pro-Wrestling wishes EVIL the very best in his future activities." 

EVIL's NJPW exit won't come as a shock, with reports in recent days noting that EVIL had given his notice to New Japan and he was expected to sign with WWE. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has since noted that EVIL is heading to WWE.

EVIL's exit ends his 15-year association with NJPW, having begun his pro wrestling career as a young lion in 2011. He has been "King of Darkness" EVIL since returning from excursion in 2015 and he has been one of New Japan's featured talents over the past 11 years.

Across his NJPW career, EVIL is a one-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, one-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion, four-time NEVER Openweight Champion, two-time IWGP Tag Team Champion with SANADA, and six-time NEVER Openweight Six-Man Tag Team Champion.

EVIL was also a member of Los Ingobernables de Japón and Bullet Club during his time with New Japan. He had been the leader of House of Torture since 2021.