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Andrade El Idro is making his highly anticipated return to New Japan Pro Wrestling after more than a decade away.
In a video shown during the Road to Tokyo Dome event on December 22, Andrade announced he would step back into the ring at Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026. This marks his first stint in New Japan since 2015 when he performed as La Sombra.
The Mexican superstar revealed that he will join forces with members of United Empire for a 5-on-5 tag team match against Bullet Club Wardogs, Hiromu Takahashi, and Shingo Takagi.
“La Sombra is back in Japan. I won’t be seeing Hiroshi Tanahashi. I work all over the globe, but in Japan, I’m excited to team with my friends at United Empire. Amigos, see you at Wrestle Kingdom.”
El Idro’s return comes at a pivotal moment, having made sporadic appearances after departing WWE in September 2025. Recently, he created a stir at the House of Glory show on December 19 by attacking HOG World Champion Charles Mason after Mason retained his title against Mustafa Ali.
This surprise attack followed his well-publicized return to AEW in early October, when he was covertly brought into the venue in a wheelchair to evade security. WWE has contested this, asserting that Andrade still has a one-year ban on his contract.
Nonetheless, Andrade appears unbothered. After experiencing issues with his independent events and headlining Wrestle Kingdom with United Empire, El Idro has demonstrated that he can compete whenever and wherever he chooses, capturing the world’s attention once more.
What are your thoughts on Andrade El Idro’s comeback to New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 20? Is this the moment he has been waiting for? Share your views below.
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December 22, 2025 7:57am
Fan Take: This return is significant because Andrade El Idro has a massive following and his popularity can bring fresh excitement back to New Japan Pro Wrestling. His collaboration with United Empire could potentially reshape dynamics in the wrestling world and reignite interest among fans who appreciate high-caliber matchups.
