Mixed Feelings About WWE Working Relationship Within AJPW

In a departure from much of the company's history, WWE recently struck up at least a one-time-only deal with All Japan Pro-Wrestling in late 2023 that saw Charlie Dempsey head to the Japanese promotion. He competed in two tag team matches and even pinned Katsuhiko Nakajima before losing to the AJPW Triple Crown Champion in a title match on January 3. 

Reports have indicated the WWE-AJPW relationship is at the very least considered a "wait and see" situation but Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has claimed it is an "ongoing thing" between WWE and the All Japan President. The new working relationship has generated a mixed reaction within AJPW. 

"I was told it's an ongoing thing. Although there are certainly people in All Japan who have mixed feelings on it. The president of All Japan and WWE, they have a deal going right now," Meltzer said on Wrestling Observer Radio.

The "mixed feelings" come at a time of unhappiness amongst the AJPW roster, with multiple veteran wrestlers announcing their exits at the end of 2023. The AJPW President was booed at one of the promotion's shows over the new year.