Since the advent of All Elite Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling star Kenny Omega has been one of the most talked-about names regarding joining the promotion. So far, names such as Chris Jericho, So Cal Uncensored (Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian, and Scorpio Sky), Hangman Page, Britt Baker, Pac, Joey Janela, and Maxwell J. Friedman have all confirmed that they will be a part of the roster. However, the future of Omega has yet to be officially determined, despite many rumors circulating.
At Wrestle Kingdom 13 on January 4, Omega ended his seven-month IWGP Heavyweight Championship reign after losing to G1 Climax winner Hiroshi Tanahashi. Following this loss, he revealed to Tokyo Sports that he will be stepping away from pro wrestling to reevaluate his future. He also teased a possible jump to either WWE or AEW.
With Omega potentially leaving New Japan, a major topic of discussion is whether he will be a surprise entrant in the Royal Rumble match, scheduled to occur on January 27. Despite many believing that this may occur, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer quickly shot down this rumor.
“It’s not going to happen.”
Omega’s contract is set to expire at the end of January, which would not make him able to compete in the WWE until at least February. As a result, barring any kind of contractual loophole, Omega’s appearance in the Royal Rumble match is not going to happen. However, this does not dismiss a possible WWE debut after his NJPW contract expires, especially since he was reportedly offered a huge amount of money to sign with WWE.
[lawrence-related id=869451]In just a few weeks time, Kenny Omega will arguably be the hottest free agent in all of pro wrestling. Whether he decides to take the huge offer from WWE, or help AEW build from the ground up, is left for the fans to anticipate.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
