Kazuchika Okada says he’s leaving New Japan Pro Wrestling with the intention of never returning to the company.
At Saturday’s ‘New Beginning’ in Sapporo event, Okada worked his last match for the company he’s been with for most of his wrestling career.
When asked by Tokyo Sports if he might return to face Tetsuya Naito at a Tokyo Dome show at some point, Okada 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. I’m sorry about that, but I don’t think so. Of course, I want to treasure the feeling and the words I received.”
Okada’s contract with NJPW expired at the end of January, and he is expected to sign with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in the very near future.
Kazuchika Okada, one of the most prominent and successful professional wrestlers in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), has recently announced his departure from the company with no intention of returning. This news has sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community and has left fans wondering about the future of the legendary wrestler.
Okada, who has been with NJPW for the majority of his wrestling career, worked his final match for the company at the ‘New Beginning’ in Sapporo event. This marked the end of an era and left fans emotional as they bid farewell to a true icon of the sport.
When asked about the possibility of returning to face Tetsuya Naito at a Tokyo Dome show, Okada made it clear that he is already looking ahead to what’s next in his career and has no plans of returning to NJPW. He expressed his gratitude for the support and love he has received from fans but stated that he believes his time with the company has come to an end.
Okada’s contract with NJPW expired at the end of January, leading to speculation about his future plans. It is widely expected that he will sign with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a rising professional wrestling promotion based in the United States. AEW has been making waves in the industry since its inception in 2019 and has attracted several top talents from around the world.
If Okada does indeed join AEW, it would be a significant acquisition for the promotion. Known for his incredible in-ring skills and charismatic presence, Okada has been a major draw for NJPW and has had numerous memorable matches throughout his career. His addition to AEW’s roster would undoubtedly elevate the promotion’s status and provide fans with dream matches against some of the best wrestlers in the world.
While Okada’s departure from NJPW may be disheartening for fans who have followed his journey closely, it also opens up new opportunities for him to explore. AEW’s growing popularity and global reach could provide Okada with fresh challenges and the chance to showcase his talent to a wider audience.
As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, it is not uncommon for wrestlers to switch promotions and seek new experiences. Okada’s decision to leave NJPW may be seen as a bold move, but it also reflects his desire for growth and the pursuit of new goals.
Regardless of where Okada’s future lies, his impact on NJPW and the wrestling industry as a whole cannot be understated. He has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy will be remembered for years to come.
As fans eagerly await official confirmation of Okada’s next move, one thing is certain – his departure from NJPW marks the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career. Wrestling enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly watching to see what the future holds for this incredible talent.