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After much speculation, Yuto-Ice has set the record straight: the Knockout Brothers will not be leaving New Japan Pro Wrestling.
During a match at New Japan Pro Wrestling’s New Year’s Dash event on January 5, 2026, Yuto Ice took the microphone and delivered an impassioned speech that directly addressed recent rumors linking him and his tag partner Oscar to WWE. His message was unmistakable: they are committed to staying with New Japan.
This revelation follows a December 2025 report from Self Made Pro indicating that WWE had made a formal contract offer to the reigning IWGP Tag Team Champions. Sources suggest that WWE is actively pursuing the Knockout Brothers as part of its global recruitment strategy.
“Individuals familiar with the situation claim that WWE has extended contract offers to both New Japan Pro Wrestling’s IWGP Tag Team Champions, Yuto Ice and Oscar.”
The report noted that WWE scouts were “very impressed” by the duo’s rise throughout 2025, especially their exceptional performance in the World Tag League and their victory over Taichi & Tomohiro Ishii at Destruction in Kobe to secure the title.
Nevertheless, Yuto Ice confronted the rumors directly at New Year’s Dash, emphasizing their unwavering dedication to New Japan Pro Wrestling despite the speculation.
With this announcement, the Knockout Brothers have put an end to the buzz surrounding their future, at least for now, and fans can look forward to seeing the IWGP Tag Team Champions continue their reign in New Japan for the foreseeable future.
What are your thoughts on Yuto Ice and Oscar’s decision to stay with New Japan Pro Wrestling? Do you think they would have fared better in WWE? Share your opinions in the comments.
Fan Take: This news is significant for wrestling fans as it reinforces the strength and stability of New Japan Pro Wrestling, keeping competitive talents within its ranks. The continued dominance of the Knockout Brothers could heighten the promotion’s global profile and impact future storylines and rivalries, enriching the wrestling landscape as a whole.
