Kazuchika Okada’s contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) is about to expire, sending shockwaves across the professional wrestling industry. Rumors about Okada’s future circulated a few weeks ago, and today, the official NJPW website has confirmed it.
As his contract concludes, the five-time IWGP heavyweight champion is exploring options for a possible career continuation, potentially outside Japan. Many in the wrestling world are curious about whether the former Japanese champion would sign with AEW or WWE.
When will Kazuchika Okada’s NJPW contract end?
Competing for New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Kazuchika Okada is a renowned Japanese wrestler and a member of the NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champions. His impressive career includes owning the record for the longest reign in the IWGP Heavyweight Championship at 720 days, along with the most successful title defenses.
Throughout his tenure with NJPW, Okada has achieved the remarkable feat of winning the IWGP heavyweight title five times. Previous rumors had suggested that his contract would be terminated, but in light of recent leadership changes in NJPW, there is now a lot of uncertainty.
It was recently stated by NJPW that Okada’s contract would expire on January 31, 2024, despite the fact that he made appearances at three events in February. The announcement has caused a stir which has resulted in the New Jersey Public Works expressing their appreciation for Okada’s services and wishing him well in his future endeavors.
The official statement noted, “Kazuchika Okada will be leaving New Japan Pro-Wrestling after the conclusion of his contract on January 31, 2024…We apologise to fans for the abrupt nature of this announcement, but join them in wishing Okada the very best in his future.”
Wrestling fans guess Kazuchika Okada’s next destination from NJPW
After more than a decade with NJPW, Okada will bid farewell during the upcoming New Beginning series on February 11 in Osaka and February 23 and 24 in Sapporo. In a heartfelt statement, Okada expressed gratitude for his journey, acknowledging NJPW, and the passionate fans.
Since The Rainmaker became a free agent, there has been speculation about his next destination, with AEW, WWE, and other promotions expressing interest. Fans have been buzzing with opinions on social media, discussing possible landing spots for the 36-year-old star.
While Okada has appeared in AEW, WWE is reportedly showing “new interest.” As the wrestling world waits to see where the Japanese legend will take his next step, AEW is a strong contender in fan talk.
Do you have any suggestions for future promotions that Okada may be a part of? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
