NJPW Confirms Kota Ibushi's Departure

Kota Ibushi is officially a free agent following the expiry of his contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, the promotion have confirmed.

"With the conclusion of his contract period on January 31 2023, Kota Ibushi has departed New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Ibushi had been recovering from injury since October 2021. We apologise to Ibushi's fans for the abrupt announcement, and join them in wishing Ibushi the very best in all his future endeavours," NJPW wrote in a statement.

Ibushi commented on his NJPW departure, tweeting: "I had many conflicts, but thank you New Japan Pro-Wrestling! I have decided not to renew my contract, but to become a freelancer. Thank you for the long but condensed period of time. Thank you very much. From now on, I hope that you will watch over my path! You never know what will happen."

Ibushi had competed solely in NJPW since 2019 but he has been out of action with a serious shoulder injury since October of 2021. Ibushi then had personal issues with New Japan that were mostly resolved in 2022. He is a former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.

Ibushi has since been announced for Josh Barnett's Bloodsport and Joey Janela's Spring Break over WrestleMania 39 weekend.