Kazuchika Okada’s contract with NJPW expired at midnight Japan Standard Time, making him a free agent. He expressed his gratitude to the fans for their support during his time with the promotion in a statement released on X.
Although AEW is rumored to be the frontrunner to land him. He wrote,
“Thank you for supporting New Japan Pro Wrestling for 17 years! thank you very much! I laughed, got angry, cried, it was great! I look forward to playing the remaining three games as a free agent!”
新日本プロレス17年間お世話になりました！
ありがとうございました！
笑ったり、怒ったり、泣いたり、最高でした！
フリーとして残り3試合もよろしくお願いします！ pic.twitter.com/EDBAqZSEOO— オカダ・カズチカ (@rainmakerXokada) January 31, 2024
Kazuchika Okada, one of the most iconic professional wrestlers in Japan, has become a free agent after his contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) expired. The news has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, with fans eagerly speculating about where Okada will end up next.
Okada, known for his charismatic persona and incredible in-ring skills, expressed his gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support during his 17-year tenure with NJPW. In a statement released on X, he thanked the fans and reminisced about the rollercoaster of emotions he experienced during his time with the promotion.
The wrestling world is abuzz with rumors that All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is the frontrunner to sign Okada. AEW, a rising force in the industry, has been making waves by signing top talents from around the world. If Okada were to join AEW, it would undoubtedly be a seismic shift in the landscape of professional wrestling.
Okada’s statement on social media further fueled speculation about his future plans. He mentioned that he is looking forward to playing the remaining three games as a free agent. This cryptic message has left fans wondering what lies ahead for the Rainmaker.
Throughout his career, Okada has achieved numerous accolades and cemented his status as one of the greatest wrestlers of his generation. He is a five-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, a record previously held by Hiroshi Tanahashi. Okada’s matches against the likes of Kenny Omega and Tetsuya Naito have been hailed as some of the best in recent memory.
While AEW seems like a logical destination for Okada, other promotions such as WWE and Impact Wrestling could also be in the mix. WWE, the largest wrestling promotion in the world, has been known to sign top international talents in the past. Impact Wrestling, on the other hand, has been making strides in rebuilding its roster with notable signings.
Regardless of where Okada ends up, his presence will undoubtedly elevate any promotion he joins. His unique blend of athleticism, storytelling, and charisma has captivated audiences worldwide. Fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of his next move, which is sure to be a game-changer in the wrestling industry.
In conclusion, Kazuchika Okada’s departure from NJPW as a free agent has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. With rumors swirling about his potential destination, fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the career of this legendary wrestler. Whether he signs with AEW, WWE, or another promotion, one thing is for certain: Okada’s impact will be felt wherever he goes.