Most of us expected Shinsuke Nakamura to hang around, drop the IWGP Intercontinental Championship and then leave for WWE, However, New Japan Pro Wrestling has stripped Nakamura of the championship.
NJPW posted an article early Tuesday morning announcing the move. As previously stated many expected Nakamura to finish out the month in New Japan leading to him losing the title.
At NJPW’ New year dash Bullet Club member Kenny Omega had challenged Nakamura to a title match. The article posted by NJPW stated that Omega would now be taking on an undetermined opponent for the championship.
Both Nakamura and AJ Styles are rumored to be heading to WWE. Styles last NJPW performance was at New Year Dash, with Nakamura supposedly leaving in Feburary. Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows are both rumored to be leaving for WWE as well.
Nakamura’s final show will be January 30 at Korakuen Hall.
Read our other posts surrounding these WWE signings HERE