EVIL Nearing NJPW Exit as WWE Talks Continue – As noted, former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion EVIL is nearing the end of his run with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, with multiple reports indicating that he has given notice and is expected to explore opportunities outside the company. Recent updates suggest that WWE is a strong possibility as EVIL weighs his next move in professional wrestling.
According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, EVIL has already held discussions with WWE regarding a potential run. While there is believed to be interest from several promotions in Japan, sources indicate that EVIL’s long-term goal may be to relocate to the United States. “When evaluating options outside of NJPW, WWE and other Japanese companies are the likely options,” the report stated. “EVIL has been backstage at a number of WWE events, supporting those close to him, and we’re told that there have been talks between the two sides. Those we spoke to in NJPW expect there to be options for him in Japan, but they expect him to try to relocate to the United States.”
One notable detail from the report is that All Elite Wrestling does not appear to be a destination for the 39-year-old. AEW President Tony Khan is reportedly “not a fan” of EVIL’s work, which has effectively removed AEW from consideration. That lack of interest leaves WWE as a clear front-runner should both sides agree on contract terms.
In Japan, speculation has also focused on a possible reunion with EVIL’s former Los Ingobernables de Japon stablemates. Rumors suggest that Pro Wrestling NOAH could be an option, with talk of EVIL potentially joining Tetsuya Naito and BUSHI under the name Los Tranquilos de Japon. However, with SANADA currently on indefinite hiatus and reports pointing toward EVIL’s desire to move to the U.S., a full-time run in NOAH appears uncertain.
Meanwhile, NJPW has already begun adjusting to EVIL’s expected departure. Ren Narita has officially stepped into the role of leader of House of Torture. Narita is set to challenge NEVER Openweight Champion Aaron Wolf on February 11 at The New Beginning in Osaka. Wolf captured the title by defeating EVIL in his Wrestle Kingdom 20 debut, making the upcoming match a significant moment for the restructured faction.
EVIL Reportedly Nearing NJPW Exit as WWE Talks Continue
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