Kota Ibushi‘s contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling is reportedly set to expire soon.
The former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion hasn’t competed in a match since a shoulder injury took place in the G1 Climax Finals against Kazuchika Okada in October 2021. As of this writing, it’s unclear how long he will remain out of action.
According to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Ibushi’s deal with NJPW will expire at the end of January 2023, but nothing about his future with the company is definite. Meltzer also noted that Ibushi has been doing “light training” in the ring.
This came after Ibushi’s tweet earlier this week that seemingly teased he would soon be entering free agency. Tweeting out:
“There is nothing wrong with my choice. If there is, that failure is a mistake for success. When asked about the regrets of life, I’ve never regretted it so much that I thought time had stopped.
Do you need this word? regret. . Hey. Let’s do our best to prepare today! Two more months, oops. dangerous dangerous *Cold sweat face emoji*,” Ibushi wrote. (Translated by Google)
自分の選択に間違いはない。
あるとすればその失敗は成功の為の間違い。人生の後悔と言う質問をされた時、時が止まったかとおもったくらい後悔したことないなぁ。この単語必要なんですか？後悔。。ねぇ。
今日も準備に向けて頑張ろう！あと２ヶ、おーっと。危ない危ない?— 飯伏 幸太 (@ibushi_kota) November 28, 2022
In June 2022, NJPW penalized Ibushi for a breach of contract after an unapproved appearance at a Just Tap Out show in March. The company also sanctioned others involved in the situation. Ibushi had previously expressed his frustrations with the company on social media.
WrestleZone will provide more information as it becomes available.
READ MORE: Kota Ibushi Provides Injury Update, Comments On His Relationship With NJPW
What do you make of this report? Do you think Kota Ibushi will become a free agent in the world of professional wrestling next month? Let us know your thoughts by sounding off in the comments section below.
