January is always a significant month for New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), not only because they hold their biggest event, Wrestle Kingdom, at the Tokyo Dome, but also due to frequent contract discussions and potential talent departures. Traditionally, NJPW signs foreign wrestlers to one-year contracts that renew each January, allowing wrestlers to negotiate with other promotions if desired. However, Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp reports that January 2026 may bring changes to how NJPW manages these contracts.
This year, several foreign wrestlers didn’t actually sign formal contracts at the start but worked under handshake agreements, receiving pay for appearances until they finalized contracts later in spring or summer. Some contracts extended beyond the usual January expiration, creating uncertainty over who will be free agents after Wrestle Kingdom. Notably, Bullet Club War Dogs members Gabe Kidd and Clark Connors operated under handshake deals, enabling them to get paid per AEW appearance through 2025 despite not being under NJPW contract.
NJPW is reportedly more selective this year in recruiting, with many free agents reaching out for opportunities but receiving no responses. One notable free agent even offered to work for less money but was still ignored. This shift might stem from NJPW reducing U.S. events, phasing out the NJPW STRONG brand, and letting U.S. contracts quietly expire, signaling a step back from promoting to international audiences.
Fan Take: This contract shake-up in NJPW is huge for AEW fans as it may open the door for more NJPW talent to appear on AEW shows, adding fresh matchups and storylines. It also suggests a shift in the wrestling landscape where fluid talent movement could redefine global wrestling alliances and competition.
