Kazuchika Okada Is leaving NJPW

In a stunning development, New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) announced on January 18th that Kazuchika Okada, who has been an integral part of the company for 16 years, will be departing after his contract expires on January 31st. Since debuting with NJPW in 2007, Okada has made an indelible mark as one of its top luminaries, and his absence is sure to leave fans and colleagues keenly aware.

The impending departure of Okada has not only caused a stir among fans but also within the NJPW community. Hiroshi Tanahashi, who is the President and Representative Director of NJPW, shared his thoughts on this matter. In an interview with Tokyo Sports, he expressed gratitude towards Okada for his contributions to the company and said that it was unfortunate that they would be losing such talent in their midst. Additionally, Tanahashi stated how much he had enjoyed witnessing matches between Okada and emerging talents; hence, he wished there were more opportunities for them before parting ways eventually.

Tanahashi expressed his gratitude and mentioned that he would have preferred to witness more matches with the upcoming generation. Nonetheless, he acknowledged that New Japan had made significant efforts towards this goal. Tanahashi also desired for wrestlers to broaden their horizons beyond just New Japan wrestling and strive globally.

Tanahashi’s statement reveals the mixed emotions surrounding Okada’s leaving NJPW. Although there is a longing for more bouts with him, his unwavering commitment to the promotion cannot be ignored, and it is wished that he prospers worldwide.

Okada’s impact is remarkable, with a legacy that cannot be overlooked. As a five-time IWGP heavyweight champion, his fourth reign holds the record for being the longest ever at 720 days. He also outshines all competitors as a two-time IWGP World Heavyweight Champion and currently adds to his accomplishments by holding the NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship, proving himself to be an adaptable performer in multiple arenas.

As Okada bids farewell to the wrestling realm, it’s crucial to grasp the gravity of such an undertaking. By opting for a stable occupation in a foreign enterprise, he is poised to make history as Japan’s premier wrestler who has ever ventured out full-time abroad. His move sets forth a massive shift within Japanese wrestling geography; his choice also highlights how industry dynamics are rapidly transforming and that wrestlers can explore exciting prospects beyond NJPW.

Hiroshi Tanahashi feels a strong sense of pride for Kazuchika Okada’s accomplishments that echoes deeply. “I hope he takes his New Japan success with him when going abroad and shows the world what Kazuchika Okada is capable of,” remarked Tanahashi in relatable admiration for his previous NJPW departure, Shinsuke Nakamura.

Okada’s departure, alongside well-known figures such as Will Ospreay and Kota Ibushi, has raised uncertainties about NJPW’s future trajectory. Nevertheless, Tanahashi holds a positive outlook on the matter by highlighting that these departures should be acknowledged with composure. He emphasizes how NJPW is devoted to cultivating emerging talent and reassures fans of their preparations for an upcoming era.

“I view talents exiting NJPW not as a test but rather as an opportunity to adapt and progress. It’s a common occurrence in wrestling organisations, and we’ll weather the storm. New Japan is committed to nurturing its up-and-coming wrestlers, so we can anticipate an exciting evolution of the company,” stated Tanahashi confidently.

Tanahashi’s words of assurance offer a ray of hope to fans of NJPW who are concerned about the loss of significant players. The focus on fostering fresh talent highlights the company’s dedication towards progress and transformation.

With the New Beginning series of shows coming to an end, fans are feeling differently about Okada finally leaving NJPW. It calls to mind the past that is going away, yet at the same time, it arouses intense enthusiasm for what will happen next. The departure of an icon provides a chance for the new faces to appear at centre stage and provide their own lines.

NJPW’s history is legendary. The history of Japanese wrestling has changed since Kazuchika Okada left NJPW. This legendary scene does not just touch on professional wrestling; it foreshadows the metamorphosis that this industry as a whole undergoes. While Hiroshi Tanahashi said thank you and praise to Okada, supporters are not only reviewing his extraordinary performances but also waiting for the next episodes of Japanese wrestling.