NJPW could reportedly be losing a former champion to WWE.
During a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Live (via F4Wonline.com), Bryan Alvarez discussed EVIL’s contract situation with New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
“By the way, EVIL might be on his way out of New Japan, and it is strongly rumored that he is on his way to WWE,” Alvarez said.
A former NJPW World Champion, EVIL dropped his NEVER Openweight Championship to former Olympic judoka gold medalist Aaron Wolf at Wrestling Kingdom 20 in early January. The two most recently faced off in multi-man action at NJPW Road To The New Beginning.
WWE eyeing major NJPW name
EVIL isn’t the only NJPW talent reportedly attracting WWE’s attention. The company is also said to be eyeing Gabe Kidd once his contract expires later this month.
“Gabe Kidd is another one that they (WWE) want. I’m sure AEW wants him, and I’m sure New Japan wants him,” Dave Meltzer said. “With Kidd, it’s going to be really interesting because I think he truly loves New Japan, and New Japan made him a star.” [H/T: WrestlingNews.co]
This news comes as several top NXT stars have moved to the main roster in recent weeks. Trick Williams, Je’Von Evans, and Jordynne Grace have all transitioned to RAW or SmackDown, leaving the door open for upcoming free agents to potentially sign with the NXT brand.
Speaking of that, Shawn Michaels recently brought Sean Legacy to WWE NXT full-time, with the signing confirmed on social media. Legacy has been a standout performer on the independent circuit and has made several appearances for WWE EVOLVE.
On the January 20 NXT broadcast, Sean Legacy faced Eli Knight in an NXT Championship ladder match qualifier. Fans can check out WrestleZone’s full coverage of the event here to see if Legacy advanced to the next stage.
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