Kazuchika Okada is set to leave the NJPW after 17 years with the promotion, providing numerous memories and countless iconic matches over the years. Okada’s contract has now expired and he bid farewell to his former company.
As reported earlier, Kazuchika Okada was going to become free agent at the end of January. The promotion then officially confirmed that Okada will be parting ways with the company after this month.
In light of his contract expiry, as it is February 1st in Japan right now, The Rainmaker took to Twitter and thanked New Japan Pro Wrestling for working with him for 17 years. He also looked forward to working the next few dates as a free agent.
”Thank you for supporting New Japan Pro Wrestling for 17 years! thank you very much! I laughed, got angry, cried, it was great! I look forward to playing the remaining three games as a free agent!”
Kazucika Okada’s final match in NJPW will take place in Osaka, Japan, against his long-time rival Hiroshi Tanahashi. He will be competing as a free agent and will likely close a major chapter in his career.
We have also reported Kazuchika Okada’s most likely landing spot following his NJPW departure. Only time will tell whether Kazuchika Okada will actually end up in AEW, or if he will end up in WWE, as the world is truly his oyster right now.
What do you think about this Kazuchika Okada story? What’s your favorite Kazuchika Okada match in NJPW? Let us know in the comments section below!