Following his exit from New Japan Pro-Wrestling, there has been speculation about Kazuchika Okada joining AEW. Although there were rumors about WWE, Tony Khan’s company had the upper hand.
The March 6 episode of Dynamite, following the successful Revolution pay-per-view, was anticipated for the potential arrival of the Rainmaker. With the updated Dynamite logo, set and theme music, it was fitting for a new face to enter the scene — and that’s exactly what happened.
The Young Bucks entered the ring to make multiple announcements, one of which suspended Hangman Adam Page and the other “fired” Kenny Omega from The Elite. As they teased the final one, Eddie Kingston stormed to the ring to trade barbs with Matthew and Nicholas Jackson, only for both to attack him.
Okada’s music then played, drawing an expectedly loud pop as he posed on the stage. However, something seemed different about AEW’s newest arrival; He entered the arena in a suit and tie, unlike the typical presentation of NJPW’s former face of the company.
Suspicions were confirmed as Okada delivered the Rainmaker on Kingston, concluding the segment by celebrating with Matthew and Nicholas. In the process, he turned heel and joined the Elite — a surprise for someone as beloved as the 36-year-old has been in pro wrestling.
This decision marks a major refresh for Okada, while also elevating the corporate persona of the Young Bucks, despite their recent loss to Sting and Darby Allin at Revolution. Okada is filling the roles of two key Elite members who may not return soon, injecting a new dynamic into a group that has seen its most drastic change since AEW’s inception.
Okada is officially All Elite, and it appears that his impact will be felt immediately. With his addition, Will Ospreay, and possibly Mercedes Mone, the upcoming month in AEW is shaping up to be action-packed.