Kazuchika Okada Rumors: NJPW Legend Drops Disappointing Update for Japanese Wrestling Fans

One of the hottest stars in the pro wrestling scene, Kazuchika Okada, is on his way to the United States. It had been confirmed a while back that he has registered a trademark of his in-ring name in the States along with finalizing an agent to represent him. This Saturday, he won his last NJPW match at The New Beginning event, continuing his winning streak and marking his end at the Japan-based circuit. While he has bid goodbye to the promotion, he has a piece of sad news for his Japanese fans.

Kazuchika Okada will not be returning to NJPW

In an interview with Tokyo Sports, The Rainmaker cleared the air about his plans. One such thing that he made clear was that he would never return to NJPW after his farewell match. He said, “I’m already looking ahead to what’s next, and I’m going out with the intention of never coming back to New Japan”

Okada further added, “I’m sorry about that, but I don’t think so. Of course, I want to treasure the feeling and the words I received.” While he wants to keep on cherishing all the memories, he has made at NJPW over the past 17 years, he expressed his excitement to start a new chapter in his pro wrestling career.

As soon as the news of Okada becoming a free agent broke out in December 2023, it was reported that both WWE and AEW raced to be the first ones to secure the hottest free agent in wrestling. While WWE did its best, rumors suggested that AEW had gained the upper hand.

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Fast forward to February, and Okada is likely All Elite now. Moreover, someone is already waiting for him at AEW.

An old friend is waiting for The Rainmaker

Kazuchika Okada had a chance to face quite a few stars from AEW during his time at NJPW. One of the said stars is Bryan Danielson. In an interview, the AEW top star had commented as to why Okada should sign with AEW. He stated that if the Japanese star went with WWE, he would have to go through the same time-consuming process of training at NXT, just like Shinsuke Nakamura.

However, Danielson believes that AEW might be a better fit for the Japanese star as he will directly be thrown into the action. He stated that Okada is already an expert and does not require the process of training separately. Due to this, he will waste less time as a rookie in the promotion and could easily climb up the ranks at AEW. But all things aside, do you think Okada should cut all ties with NJPW? Let us know in the comments below.

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