According to Tokyo Sports, Kenny Omega’s time at New Japan Pro-Wrestling has come to the end. The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion lost the belt at Wrestle Kingdom 13 earlier this week, and it appears to be his final match for the company. The outlet says that he will either be signing with All Elite Wrestling or WWE, although a decision has not yet been made.
“If I go to WWE, the fans there will be pleased,” stated Omega. “If I go to AEW, the fans there will be happy. I want to be in a place where I’m going to be happy.” Either way, the future looks bright for Omega. “The Cleaner” has established himself as one of the best wrestlers in the world, and has put on some incredible matches. He told Tokyo Sports that his contract with NJPW is not over until the end of the month.”
Here’s more on how Omega explained his exit (as translated by Chris Charlton):
“Reflecting back on it, the Wrestle Kingdom 13 match was a bout to decide the protagonist of New Japan…I take full responsibility for the loss. There is no real place for me to fit, so it’s best for me not to be in [New Japan Pro-Wrestling]. I can’t be there working under Tanahashi. I don’t think he’s surpassed me, don’t think he’s better. If we can, I want to face him again. But I need time away, and not just from New Japan.”
Kenny Omega has worked for New Japan since 2010 when he debuted in a tag team match with Kota Ibushi against Gedo and Jado. During his run, Omega had a number of accolades, including the following:
- IWGP Heavyweight Championship
- IWGP Intercontinental Championship
- IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship
- IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship>
- IWGP United States Championship
- NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship
- G1 Climax Winner (2016)
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