Ah, wrestling’s free agency season—a time when deals are expiring, rumors are swirling, and contracts are as unpredictable as a ladder match at Wrestle Kingdom. The latest star potentially stepping into the ring of uncertainty is none other than TJP. According to Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp, the United Empire’s junior heavyweight ace is nearing the end of his NJPW contract.
TJP, who made a name for himself as the first-ever WWE Cruiserweight Champion before joining NJPW in 2022, has been a cornerstone of the junior heavyweight division. His role alongside Francisco Akira as Catch 2/2 has been nothing short of championship-caliber, with the duo racking up three IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Title reigns. Naturally, NJPW doesn’t want to lose one of their most decorated tag stars. Negotiations are reportedly underway, but as of now, TJP’s future remains as murky as a referee’s vision during a Bullet Club interference.
The timing couldn’t be more dramatic, as TJP and Akira gear up for the “Tokyo Terror” ladder match on January 4. This four-way chaos includes the reigning champions, KUSHIDA and Kevin Knight (aka the Intergalactic Jet Setters), along with the Bullet Club War Dogs and the Ichiban Sweet Boys. Nothing like a little contract uncertainty to spice up the already intense stakes of the Tokyo Dome.
But TJP isn’t the only one in NJPW’s contract crosshairs. Kevin Knight, who has been tearing it up alongside KUSHIDA, is also reportedly nearing the end of his deal. WWE Superstar Natalya recently hyped Knight on social media, sparking speculation that WWE might come calling for the high-flying sensation. Could NJPW be bracing for a double loss, or will the lure of Japanese gold keep these stars grounded?
For now, fans will just have to wait and see. One thing’s for sure—January in Japan is shaping up to be as wild outside the ring as it is inside.