Shinsuke Nakamura Likely Heading Back to NJPW After WWE Exit
Shinsuke Nakamura’s future is one of the hottest discussion points in pro wrestling right now. After a lengthy run in WWE that saw him capture multiple titles and reinvent himself across different brands, all signs point to Nakamura’s time in the company coming to a quiet end. But fans dreaming of an AEW debut may be setting themselves up for disappointment—because New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) seems like the far more realistic destination.
According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, AEW has not shown any formal interest in signing Nakamura. During the latest Backstage Report, Sapp responded to a direct question about whether AEW was considering bringing in Nakamura. His answer was blunt:
“Have you heard of any interest within AEW to bring in Shinsuke? Nope.”
This simple response seems to confirm that AEW isn’t making moves to sign the King of Strong Style. However, Sapp did suggest a more logical route for Nakamura: returning to NJPW, the promotion where he became a legend before signing with WWE in 2016.
“I would imagine if he leaves WWE — I believe he’ll go back to New Japan and probably work on a deal that would allow him to work AEW and New Japan, like a Forbidden Door type of thing.”
While Sapp was clear that this isn’t based on any confirmed backstage talk, it’s rooted in strong industry logic. Nakamura has deep ties to NJPW and could return as a top-tier name instantly. With the ongoing collaboration between AEW and NJPW through events like Forbidden Door, it’s not far-fetched to imagine Nakamura appearing on AEW TV down the line—even if he’s not signed directly.
Nakamura’s WWE Status: Official, But Unused
As of now, Nakamura is still listed as part of WWE’s active roster. However, his appearances have become scarce. His last major showing was back in March, where he lost the United States Championship to LA Knight at a Premium Live Event. Since then, Nakamura has made only brief appearances and has been largely absent from storylines.
There’s been no formal announcement from WWE or Nakamura about a departure, which leaves his future up in the air. But with his contract possibly nearing its end and no major TV presence in recent weeks, fans and insiders alike are expecting an official announcement soon.
What A Return to NJPW Could Mean
If Nakamura does return to NJPW, it would be more than just a homecoming. He could instantly challenge for top titles, revisit old rivalries, and mentor rising stars. With NJPW’s stronger push into the U.S. market and its continued partnership with AEW, this move could be a win-win for all involved—including fans who want to see Nakamura mix it up with top talent across companies.
This also keeps the door open for Nakamura to be a part of crossover events like Forbidden Door, which thrives on dream matches and surprise appearances. While AEW may not be signing him directly, that doesn’t mean we’ve seen the last of Nakamura in a U.S.-based ring.
Is the King of Strong Style headed home? Tell us where you want Nakamura to unleash his next Kinshasa—WWE, NJPW, or AEW!
