Kazuchika Okada will be leaving NJPW when his contract ends

In a stunning development on a Thursday evening, Kazuchika Okada, one of the top superstars in NJPW, is set to depart from the company once his contract expires on January 31st. Fans had been speculating about the Rainmaker’s future, especially after changes in leadership at NJPW, but it has now been confirmed that Okada will be moving on.

In a press release issued by NJPW, Okada expressed his gratitude to the fans and the company, stating, “I have nothing but gratitude for having been a part of New Japan Pro-Wrestling since 2007.” He reflected on his journey from a 19-year-old kid stepping off a plane in Mexico to becoming the iconic Rainmaker that he is today. Okada thanked NJPW, his opponents, and the fans for their support throughout his career.

As Okada prepares to wrap up his tenure with NJPW, fans can expect to see him in action at upcoming events, including appearances on February 11 in Osaka, and February 23 and 24 in Sapporo. Changes to future cards will be announced in due course, and Okada has promised to give his all in every match he competes in before his departure.

During his time with NJPW, Okada has achieved remarkable success, winning the world championship seven times, as well as holding the NEVER Openweight Six-Man tag title once. He has also clinched victory in three New Japan Cup tournaments and four G1 Climaxes, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest wrestlers of his generation, praised by fans, analysts, and fellow wrestlers alike.

As fans bid farewell to Okada’s NJPW journey, they can look back on the incredible moments he has provided in the ring and anticipate his future endeavors with excitement and support. The wrestling world will undoubtedly miss the presence of the Rainmaker, but his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain fans for years to come.