A New Japan Pro-Wrestling without Kazuchika Okada is about to become a reality, as the company announced the departure of the 8-time Wrestle Kingdom main eventer, closing the book on speculation about his future with the promotion.
Okada will immediately face questions about what’s next for him, and there appears to be some substance.
According to Fightful Select (subscription required), AEW was “very hopeful” and “definitely interested” in landing Okada. While they tossed around ideas for him, the report added it’s currently too early to determine where he’ll land.
Fightful also reported its WWE sources had not yet heard of any talks involving the two sides, but “expected that to at least be explored.” The WWE end of things had last heard that he was unsure about making the move. He also can’t work the Royal Rumble on Saturday, Jan. 27, unless NJPW approves it.
As for Okada leaving NJPW, his departure was amicable and they kept the door open for his return in the future, despite the announcement surprising some people.
The 36-year-old’s relationship with AEW is well established, having previously worked Forbidden Door and on Dynamite, thanks to NJPW’s partnership with Tony Khan’s company. Additionally, he has numerous top names to potentially feud with while headlining their pay-per-views.
WWE presents even more opportunities for new rivalries, however, with the likes of Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, CM Punk, Randy Orton and others waiting. There’s also the opportunity to headline a WrestleMania.
In the meantime, all eyes will be on Okada’s next move. With three WWE stadium shows and AEW Revolution looming, there are plenty of opportunities to debut him grandly, pending a decision is near. For now, he’ll finish up in NJPW to close a historic run as the company’s top star and then depart not long after Jan. 31, 2024, when his contract expires.