Backstage News On Kenny Omega's NJPW Contract Expiring Soon, If He Is WWE Bound
Kenny Omega's contract status New Japan Pro Wrestling was huge news a year ago, when many wondered if he would jump ship and become a free agent. This time around, that doesn't seem to be the case.
Omega's contract with NJPW expires on January 31, 2018, but according to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there's little talk of him leaving. Omega, the current IWGP United States Champion, has said himself that barring any unforeseen issues, he plans on signing with New Japan for another year. Dave Meltzer wrote that Omega's new deal would increase his pay considerably and it would give him extra authority as a creative voice in all of his angles.
Omega has already been announced for shows beyond his NJPW contract, such as the Ring Of Honor Supercard of Honor on April 7. He's expected to highlight that card. The fact that he's most likely staying with New Japan is why officials feel comfortable announcing him for future shows, unlike last year when they felt it was a probability that he would be joining the WWE. Even though he had said he planned on staying, it wasn't 100 percent until he actually signed the deal earlier this year.
This time around, Omega is a major part of NJPW and ROH's plans for 2018. He made his intentions clear earlier this month when he told Tokyo Sports, "I'm staying in New Japan 100 percent. This is where wrestlers can be themselves and fight for themselves. I want to show how great a place it is."
Omega was recently challenged by Chris Jericho to a match at Wrestle Kingdom 12 on Jan. 4. Jericho reportedly negotiated the deal with NJPW and it's expected to be a one-off deal.
Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter
Subscribe to The Wrestling Observer by clicking here. Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus history pieces. New subscribers can also receive free classic issues.