More On Kazuchika Okada's NJPW Exit, Where He Could End Up
More details about Kazuchika Okada’s impending NJPW exit and what could be next
With the news that Kazuchika Okada is set to depart New Japan Pro-Wrestling at the end of his contract, speculation mounts as to what could be Okada’s next move, with a move to a major North American promotion potentially on the cards.
Since rumours about Okada’s NJPW future arose in late 2023, ‘The Rainmaker’ has been linked with WWE, All Elite Wrestling, and the reborn TNA Wrestling, with Okada having wrestled for the latter two promotions within the last seven months.
A report from Fightful Select says that Okada’s exit from NJPW is amicable, with the door likely to remain open for the legendary seven-time world champion to return in the future. Those within NJPW accepted that an Okada exit could be on the cards, and they remain hopeful of cultivating talent both in Japan and in the USA to lead the company into the future.
Out of Okada’s three most likely destinations in North America, All Elite Wrestling seem the most hopeful of landing Okada, having worked with the CHAOS leader on several occasions as part of their partnership with NJPW. AEW were allegedly drafting potential ideas for Okada should he become ‘All Elite’ but reports suggest it’s too early to determine where Okada will end up.
WWE were also said to be very interested in bringing Okada in, but WWE weren’t sure if Okada would be willing to make the move to America full-time. For those hoping of a Royal Rumble surprise from Okada this wouldn’t be possible unless he got permission from NJPW.
Okada recently wrestled for TNA at their Snake Eyes IMPACT tapings on January 14 after their official relaunch at Hard to Kill. The positive was said to have been a positive one, with Okada revealing that he ‘doesn’t hate’ the company in a promo after his match.
