This marks a new direction for WWE, as the company is considering collaborations with rival wrestling organizations. Stamford-based WWE appears open to allowing one of its NXT talents to explore opportunities outside the company. The WWE is undergoing a shift in direction under Triple H’s leadership.
Recent hints suggest that All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) and WWE might be exploring a collaboration. In a Twitter promo, AJPW’s president is depicted making a call to WWE management. The video and caption strongly suggest that the two wrestling organizations are moving toward a more cooperative relationship.
NXT talent set for AJPW appearance
In January, a WWE “NXT” talent will compete for the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship in All Japan Pro Wrestling. At the New Year Giant Series event, AJPW has been implying that a mystery champion may be in the mix.
The Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship will be defended by Katsuhiko Nakajima against Kento Miyahara on December 31st. After this match, on January 3rd, the champion will face an NXT “assassin” from WWE.
A video captioned ‘Hello WWE!?’ was shared on All Japan Pro Wrestling’s social media accounts, showing AJPW President Tsuyoki Fukuda speaking with a WWE official. After discussing a possible partnership, they talk about an NXT star’s January 3rd match. Triple H and Nick Khan are on board with this thrilling collaboration.
In the call with WWE, AJPW President Tsuyoki Fukuda hinted at a surprising talent, using terms like “submission assassin” and “killer catch style.” This suggests a potential member of the No Quarter Catch Crew—Drew Gulak, Charlie Dempsey, or Damon Kemp. Fukuda expressed gratitude for WWE’s support and asked to convey thanks to their boss.
Shifting tides in Japanese wrestling scene
On the website of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, substantial changes were announced at a meeting of the company’s board of directors and shareholders that took place on December 23, 2023. The position of “President and Representative Director” of New Japan has been assumed by Hiroshi Tanahashi, and his tenure will begin immediately.
It has been decided that a news conference will take place on December 26th to explain these adjustments. Tanahashi will make his debut in his new capacity on January 4 at the Tokyo Dome, where he will address the fans directly before posing a challenge to Zack Sabre Jr. for the NJPW World Television Championship.
How do you feel about the recent changes to NJPW? Do you think this is part of the new plans? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
