Report: Kota Ibushi Unlikely To Sign With WWE

After it emerged that Kota Ibushi was a free agent following the end of his contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling on February 1, it was revealed the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion was open to joining WWE. Ibushi's interest hinged on two conditions - the opportunity to create the next generation of wrestlers at the WWE Performance Center and have high-profile matches. 

In an update, WrestleVotes have told GiveMeSport that Ibushi does not want to sign a full-time contract so the chances of Triple H adding The Golden Star to the roster are believed to be "quite thin." 

Ibushi instead looks set to work as a freelancer and he will make his return to the ring over WrestleMania 39 week. The 40-year-old will take on "Speedball" Mike Baley at Josh Barnett's Bloodsport on Thursday, March 30 before he goes one-on-one with Joey Janela at Spring Break 7 on Friday, March 7.

Ibushi has been out of action since suffering a serious shoulder injury during the G1 Climax final in October 2021.