On Wednesday, it was revealed that two major figures in New Japan Pro Wrestling, Tetsuya Naito and BUSHI, are planning their departure from the league. It was shared by NJPW that Naito’s choice to not renew his contract was a joint agreement.
The president of NJPW, Hiroshi Tanahashi, addressed fans on the news earlier today.
Tanahashi expressed, “I’m sorry for the news that surprised and saddened everyone today. I had a conversation with Naito yesterday. As a man who holds a deep affection for New Japan, I expressed the desire for Naito to remain with us till the end. However, his determination was unshakeable and I couldn’t sway him. I will respect the individual’s feelings and will facilitate their departure in a respectful manner. For the remaining duration, please offer your continued support to Naito and BUSHI.”
The last performances of Naito and BUSHI for NJPW are scheduled to take place on May 4 during the second night of Wrestling Dontaku. They will team up with their fellow Los Ingobernables de Japon members, Hiromu Takahashi and Shingo Takagi to compete against Shota Umino, Tomohiro Ishii, Taichi, and TAKA Michinoku.