In a move that shocked absolutely no one with a WiFi connection, former WWE Cruiserweight Champion and real-life DLC character TJ Perkins has reportedly ghosted NJPW’s contract offer like it was a group text from Enzo Amore.
According to sources close to Fightful Select—which is like the CIA of wristlocks—Perkins respectfully declined to lock in a new deal with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. No chairs were thrown. No tables flipped. No Gedo staredown. Just good ol’ “Thanks, but I’ll take the freelance buffet instead.”
“We’re told the decision was mutual and professional.”
– People with way more scoop than a Baskin-Robbins.
🛫 The United Empire’s Reign Becomes a United Solo Tour
Perkins, current head honcho of United Empire (aka Bullet Club Lite, but with more abs), will still show up in NJPW like that ex who “just wants to be friends.” But don’t expect him to be lacing up for this year’s Super Junior Tournament, starting May 10. Apparently, he’s too busy flying free and skipping leg day.
🎓 From Dojo to Detour
Let’s not forget, TJP was a prodigy. Back in 2001, he trained in the LA Inoki Dojo alongside Rocky Romero and a young upstart named Bryan Danielson—who now taps people out on live TV while philosophizing about kale.
Since then, Perkins has pulled the wrestling version of a LinkedIn world tour—ROH, TNA, WWE, and everywhere in between. He even became the first WWE Cruiserweight Champion of the modern era, which is like being crowned Homecoming King at a prom with no punch.