Kazuchika Okada’s impending departure from NJPW has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, leaving fans curious about his next destination. As a cornerstone of NJPW, Okada’s move promises to be a significant shift in the wrestling landscape. WWE’s Shinsuke Nakamura, a seven-time champion, recently weighed in on Okada’s departure, expressing his support and reflecting on his own experiences.
In an interview with Tokyo Sports, Nakamura offered his well-wishes to Okada, emphasizing the importance of personal courage in such decisions. “How do you view your life, who you are, what you want to become? Only you can make that decision, so the courage to take the step that Okada took… I feel like (Antonio) Inoki when I say it, but once you’ve taken the step, you have no choice but to go on. Of course, I will support him, and if there is anything I can do, I will do it,” Nakamura remarked.
Nakamura also shared his hope that Okada would not encounter the same challenges he faced when transitioning to a new promotion.
“That’s part of it, and also the invisible procedures. There were a lot of hardships I had to go through that I should not have had to go through. I don’t want them to have to go through that, and I hope they will be spoiled,” Nakamura added.
Speculation abounds regarding Okada’s next destination, with both WWE and AEW emerging as potential landing spots. Former WWE Champion Bryan Danielson voiced his desire to see Okada join AEW, citing the promotion as the ideal fit for his talents.
“Of course I want him to come to AEW. Fans all over the world know how great Okada is. Both WWE and AEW are major players, but I hope he comes to AEW. If he went to WWE, they might have him start with (third brand) NXT like Shinsuke (Nakamura), to adapt to the American style, but it’s already completed. Okada doesn’t need that. He’s one of the best wrestlers in the world right now, so he should just come to the United States without changing anything,” Danielson stated.
As Okada’s decision looms, wrestling enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his next move, with WWE and AEW poised to welcome him with open arms.
