End of an Era for NJPW’s Rainmaker

Summary

– Kazuchika Okada, a key figure in NJPW, is set to leave the company after January 31, 2024.

– Okada will complete his NJPW commitments with three final appearances in February.

– His departure marks the end of a significant chapter in NJPW history.

New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) has announced that Kazuchika Okada, one of its most prominent and decorated wrestlers, will be leaving the company following the expiration of his contract on January 31, 2024. Okada, known as the “Rainmaker,” has been a cornerstone of NJPW since 2007, and his departure signifies a major shift in the landscape of the promotion.

Okada will fulfill his remaining obligations to NJPW by appearing in three scheduled dates in February, including events in Osaka on February 11 and in Sapporo on February 23 and 24. These appearances will serve as his final matches with the company, concluding a remarkable tenure that has seen him become one of the most influential figures in professional wrestling.

Throughout his career in NJPW, Okada has achieved significant milestones, including multiple reigns as IWGP World Heavyweight and IWGP Heavyweight Champion. He holds the record for the longest reign as IWGP Heavyweight Champion, a testament to his skill, charisma, and impact on the sport.

Okada’s statement reflects his gratitude towards NJPW and its fans, acknowledging the company’s role in his growth from a young wrestler to the iconic Rainmaker. He promises to deliver outstanding performances in his remaining matches, ensuring that his final moments with NJPW will be memorable.

While Okada has made appearances for AEW, notably at the AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door events, his future endeavors remain a topic of speculation and interest among wrestling fans worldwide.