The Champ’s Future in Limbo?
David Finlay, the reigning IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion and leader of the Bullet Club War Dogs, has been a dominant force in NJPW. Between his record-breaking title reign and his Block B Final finish in the 2024 G1 Climax, Finlay’s rise has been meteoric. But could the champ’s run be nearing an unexpected end?
The Scoop: Contract Countdown
Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp reports that Finlay’s NJPW contract is approaching its expiration. This revelation comes as part of an ongoing trend of NJPW talent facing contract renewals around Wrestle Kingdom season. The company, however, seems eager to keep Finlay in their corner, expressing strong interest in signing him to a new deal.
Finlay joins a growing list of talents like Kevin Knight, TJP, and fellow Bullet Club War Dog Gabe Kidd, all of whom NJPW reportedly wants to lock in long-term. For now, though, no negotiations have started, leaving the future of Finlay’s tenure in New Japan uncertain.
Eyes on Wrestle Kingdom
While the contract chatter brews backstage, Finlay has no time to rest. He’s slated for a grueling Wrestle Kingdom weekend. On January 4, he’ll defend his IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship against Yota Tsuji, the man who ousted him from the G1 Climax. If Finlay survives, he’s back in action just 24 hours later at Wrestle Dynasty, taking on AEW’s Brody King in what promises to be a hard-hitting showdown.
One caveat: If Finlay remains champion, his title won’t be up for grabs at Wrestle Dynasty. Even champions need a breather, right?
The Verdict?
Will Finlay stay loyal to NJPW and extend his reign of dominance, or is the wrestling world about to get a shocking free-agent swerve? Time, and a lot of backstage negotiations, will tell.