Kazuchika Okada’s time with New Japan is set to come to an end.
As reported by Sports Illustrated, Okada’s contract with New Japan is set to expire shortly after Wrestle Kingdom in January 2024. It is noted that although negotiations with NJPW would be underway, the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion is looking at alternative options.
It is reported that The Rainmaker’s appearance on AEW Dynamite on October 25th had an additional motive. Along with the continuation of his rivalry with Bryan Danielson, Okada used to trip to get a feel of what the AEW environment was like. With New Japan having a strong relationship with AEW, many suspect that Okada may make the jump to AEW in the same way that Will Ospreay did at Full Gear. However, according to the report, it is not that straightforward.
Kazuchika Okada To WWE?
In what seemed impossible just over a year ago, Okada may be considering a move to WWE. The legendary wrestler would be a huge blow for AEW if WWE were to sign Okada, as this would be a free agent that Tony Khan would be willing to pay a hefty price for. It is noted that WWE have a history of booking Japanese stars poorly in the past, often never taking them seriously. However, this is a much different regime than when Vince McMahon was in charge. As has been seen on recent weeks of TV, Shinsuke Nakamura has been placed in a prominent spot and has been in the main event of recent WWE Premium Live Events.
WWE certainly has the opportunity to make Okada an even bigger star than he is now due to the wider audience and marquee matches against top stars on the big PLEs.
Crucially, the deciding factor may come down to how much does Okada want to return to New Japan when his contract expires? Tony Khan has gone on the record and stated that Will Ospreay is still free to travel to the promotion and wrestle for NJPW when required. With WWE rarely wanting to do business with other promotions, this is far less likely to be agreed upon.
With Okada being the latest name to potentially become a free agent in 2024, next year could see a lot of big names move promotions before the year is over.
Featured image: TPWW
