Kazuchika Okada will be parting ways with New Japan Pro Wrestling when his contract expires on January 31, 2024.
Fightful is reporting that sources in NJPW had heard recently that Okada had a meeting with New Japan officials about his future and it was evident by the end of the meeting that the 36-year-old wrestler would be finishing up with the company.
Several people in NJPW were surprised that Okada’s departure was announced on Thursday, as they expected the announcement to be made at some point next week.
Okada’s NJPW exit is reportedly an amicable one, and the door will likely remain open for him to return in the future.
According to NJPW sources, the promotion knew it was a reality they would potentially face someday, and are confident about creating new stars both in Japan and the United States.
Both AEW and WWE are reportedly interested in Okada, though WWE sources aren’t aware of any talks between the two sides. Okada would not be able to work the January 27th WWE Royal Rumble pay-per-view event unless NJPW permits him to do so.
While AEW is quite hopeful about securing Okada’s services, it is too early to determine where he will actually end up.
Finally, Okada mended fences with TNA Wrestling this past weekend, and the experience was reportedly a positive one.
