New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) recently announced that long-time talent, Kazuchika Okada was leaving the promotion. Could this mean a possible appearance at the 2024 WWE Royal Rumble?
Could Kazuchika Okada Appear At The 2024 WWE Royal Rumble?
Okada has been with NJPW since 2010. In fact, he’s been called the centerpiece of the promotion, headlining multiple Wrestle Kingdom, and holding the company’s top championship for seven runs.
So, it would be huge if Okada became a surprise entrant for this year’s WWE Royal Rumble. Still, while the idea of it all would be major, the likelihood is slim.
This is because the NJPW star’s contract officially expires on January 31st. This is four days after the Royal Rumble takes place.
Right now, Okada cannot perform for another company unless the promotion grants an exception. Still, it’s important to note that the company gave Will Ospreay the okay to sign with All Elite Wrestling in November.
This was months before he was going to become a free agent. Ospreay inked his AEW contract and announced he’d be finishing up his NJPW commitments before becoming All Elite.
Differing Factors For Kazuchika Okada
Still, NJPW and AEW have had a working relationship since 2021. The promotions have shared dozens of talent regularly and have co-organized the Forbidden Door event together.
NJPW gave its blessing to Ospreay to head to AEW. It’s unclear if they would give that same contract leniency when it comes to the WWE.
In addition, reports reveal that AEW is making a strong play for Okada. Tony Khan actively pursued Ospreay and signed him before he could negotiate a deal with WWE, and it looks like the same thing could happen with Okada.
Khan has shown considerable admiration for Okada’s work in the past. There’s a good chance AEW will go after this talent hard.
