Folks, New Japan Pro Wrestling is apparently running things on “we’ll figure it out later” mode, as multiple wrestlers are currently working without contracts. That’s right—some of NJPW’s top talent is essentially running on handshake agreements, coffee-fueled optimism, and the hope that nobody notices.
According to Fightful Select, several NJPW stars are technically free agents, yet still wrestling for the company while negotiations slowly drag on. Why the delay? No one knows! Maybe they lost the paperwork. Maybe everyone just got too invested in fantasy booking. Maybe it’s all a work (because wrestling, obviously).
Big names Zack Sabre Jr., Gabe Kidd, and David Finlay were all nearing the end of their contracts but remain involved in major NJPW events. With all three men confirmed for the 2025 New Japan Cup, logic suggests they’re staying put—either that, or NJPW is just super chill about letting non-contracted wrestlers headline their events.
Meanwhile, Kevin Knight was also at the end of his NJPW run but has been taking a world tour of independent wrestling, popping up in DPW, GCW, and ROH. At this point, he’s treating promotions like an all-you-can-eat buffet, and honestly, respect.
So, what does this mean for NJPW? Either contracts will get locked in soon, or we’re going to see a sudden free agency frenzy—because when it comes to wrestling contracts, nothing is ever predictable.