Kazuchika Okada is leaving NJPW for either WWE or AEW in early 2024, when his contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling expires later this month.
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Okada has been on the radar of some in WWE for a while now, as WWE is the one thing that he has never done after doing everything in NJPW. Okada was believed to be grossly underpaid while competing and being a top star for New Japan Pro Wrestling compared to what he could be making in America, whether that be working for WWE or AEW.
Both WWE and AEW made pitches for him, and it was believed that AEW had made the stronger first offer, but no contract had been signed.
Weighing options
While speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted both sides still believe they have a chance to sign him.
“He’s gonna go to whoever makes the best offer. I’ve heard from people and talked to people who know him very well, who have talked to him in the last day or two. And he has not decided. It’s not like a secret. He just hasn’t decided yet. I know people in AEW who think they’ve got him. I know people in AEW who hope they’ve got him but don’t think they’ve got him. I know people in WWE who hope they’re gonna get him and who believe that..one person mentioned…..he wants the legacy, and it’s kinda like they’re like, ‘Well, maybe we can pay him less, but you can have your WrestleMania moment”. And again, what his goal is in his life, for some people that means more and either way he’s gonna make great money.”
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