[
EVIL will officially part ways with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) by the end of this month.
NJPW announced on January 25, 2026, that the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion will complete his contract, ending his time as a multi-title holder and the leader of the House of Torture.
The organization shared this update through an official statement on its website.
“After thorough discussions with NJPW management, EVIL, a longtime member, has decided to leave NJPW upon the expiration of his contract at the end of January 2026.”
The company expressed gratitude to fans and offered an apology for the abrupt announcement, adding:
“We sincerely apologize to all fans for this unexpected news. NJPW wishes EVIL the best in his future endeavors.”
This news follows reports indicating that EVIL has given his notice and may be signing with WWE. Brian Alvarez discussed the matter on Wrestling Observer Live, while Super Jcast also confirmed EVIL’s anticipated departure. The 38-year-old recently lost the NEVER Openweight Championship to Aaron Wolfe at Wrestle Kingdom 20, which many viewed as a sign of his impending exit.
EVIL’s departure might be part of a broader trend of talent leaving NJPW. The Voice of Wrestling has hinted that Hiromu Takahashi might also move to WWE, with others like Gabe Kidd, David Finlay, and former tag partner Sanada drawing interest from outside promotions.
During his time in NJPW, EVIL achieved notable success, including holding the IWGP Heavyweight, Intercontinental, Tag Team (twice with Sanada), NEVER Openweight Championship (four times), and the NEVER Sixth Man Title (six times). He also secured titles alongside SANADA during the 2020 New Japan Cup and the 2017 and 2018 World Tag League tournaments.
As EVIL prepares to leave Japan, fans are keenly watching his next career steps and whether he will find success in WWE.
Do you want to see EVIL in WWE? How should they utilize him if he joins? Share your thoughts on his NJPW tenure in the comments below.
Fan Take: This news is significant for wrestling fans as EVIL’s exit marks a potential shift in the wrestling landscape, with more talent eyeing opportunities in WWE. His transition could open doors for new rivalries and storylines, enriching both NJPW and WWE’s narratives.
