Kazuchika Okada’s contract with NJPW expired at midnight Japan Standard Time, making him a free agent.
Pro Wrestling Tees announced that Okada’s shirts will be pulled from the site, which caused fans to speculate about the future of the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.
Fightful is reporting that Pro Wrestling Tees pulling Okada’s merchandise is connected to the expiration of his NJPW contract.
Additionally, while Okada was still technically under contract with NJPW, the Bushiroad promotion was said to be “very understanding” with the 36-year-old wrestler negotiating with other companies since he made it clear he won’t be re-signing. Things are reportedly amicable between both sides.
There have been talks between WWE and Okada. According to certain WWE talents, Okada has spoken to roster members to gauge his potential offers, learn more about WWE’s approach, and help decide his future.
It is to be noted that WWE has not put any creative plans in place for Okada, and no pitches have been made in this regard.
AEW has been fairly confident about signing Okada. In fact, Tony Khan was so confident that AEW put tentative plans together for Okada’s potential debut. AEW has reportedly made a “substantial offer” to Okada.
Barry Bloom is representing Okada and acting as his agent.
Despite the expiration of his NJPW contract, Okada still has some New Japan dates he will be finishing up next month including a final match with Hiroshi Tanahashi scheduled for NJPW’s The New Beginning in Osaka on February 11.
Kazuchika Okada, one of the biggest names in professional wrestling, has become a free agent after his contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) expired. This news has sparked speculation among fans about his future in the industry.
Pro Wrestling Tees, a popular merchandise site, announced that they will be pulling Okada’s shirts from their platform. This move has further fueled rumors about the wrestler’s next move. It is believed that this decision is directly connected to the expiration of his NJPW contract.
During the period when Okada was still technically under contract with NJPW, the promotion’s parent company, Bushiroad, was reportedly understanding of his negotiations with other companies. Okada had made it clear that he would not be re-signing with NJPW. The relationship between both parties is said to be amicable.
One of the potential destinations for Okada could be WWE. There have been talks between the wrestler and the company, with Okada reportedly speaking to roster members to gather information about WWE’s approach and potential offers. However, it is important to note that WWE has not yet made any creative plans or pitches for Okada.
On the other hand, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) seems confident about signing Okada. Tony Khan, the president of AEW, has reportedly put together tentative plans for Okada’s potential debut. AEW has also made a substantial offer to the wrestler. This has generated excitement among fans who would love to see Okada in an AEW ring.
Representing Okada in these negotiations is Barry Bloom, a well-known sports agent who has worked with numerous high-profile athletes in the past. Bloom’s involvement suggests that Okada is taking these contract negotiations seriously and exploring all his options.
Despite becoming a free agent, Okada still has some remaining dates with NJPW that he will fulfill next month. One of these dates includes a final match with Hiroshi Tanahashi scheduled for NJPW’s The New Beginning in Osaka on February 11. This match will undoubtedly be an emotional and significant moment for both wrestlers and their fans.
As the wrestling world eagerly awaits Okada’s decision, it is clear that he has multiple options on the table. Whether he chooses to join WWE, AEW, or even explore other opportunities, fans can expect Okada to continue delivering exceptional performances and leaving a lasting impact wherever he goes.