Could a former world champion really be jumping ship to WWE? The wrestling world is buzzing with rumors that could dramatically shake up both New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Sean Rueter, a seasoned wrestling analyst who's been dissecting the sport since WrestleMania I and sharing his insights on SBNation & Cageside Seats since around WrestleMania 28, is here to break down the latest developments.
Roster shake-ups are becoming a regular occurrence! Just last week, we were discussing reports about AEW's Powerhouse Hobbs potentially heading to WWE. And now, the rumor mill is churning again, suggesting another heavyweight star is considering leaving their long-time promotion for the global juggernaut that is WWE.
This time, the wrestler in question is EVIL, a 38-year-old former IWGP Heavyweight Champion from New Japan Pro-Wrestling. The initial spark seems to have come from Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live, who mentioned the possibility during a show with Tom Lawlor. In his own words: "EVIL might be on his way out of New Japan, and it is strongly rumored he is on his way to WWE."
Adding fuel to the fire, The Super J-Cast reported that EVIL has given notice to New Japan. They also stated they've heard whispers of a WWE move. So, it seems the rumor has more than one source. But here's where it gets controversial... Is this just speculation, or is there real substance to these claims? It's worth noting that wrestling rumors should always be taken with a grain of salt, as they can often be used as leverage in contract negotiations or simply be misinformed speculation.
EVIL recently dropped the NEVER Openweight title – a championship he's held four times – to Aaron Wolf at Wrestle Kingdom 20 earlier this month. This timing has some fans believing it is a final send-off for the star. And this is the part most people miss... EVIL's character in NJPW is a very specific one. He leads the House of Torture, a Bullet Club spin-off known for its extreme rule-breaking and interference-heavy matches. This style, while effective in generating heat, hasn't always resonated with all U.S. fans. You could count on multiple run-ins by EVIL’s faction-mates in 95% of his matches, which some fans find tiresome.
However, it's undeniable that EVIL is a talented wrestler when given the opportunity to showcase his skills, as demonstrated in his excellent match with Aaron Wolf. While he might not be the tallest competitor at 5'10" and around 235 pounds, he's a legitimate heavyweight and wouldn't look out of place in the WWE landscape. But hold on, is a change in character needed to succeed in WWE?
If these rumors prove to be true, it could be a significant acquisition for WWE. But how would EVIL's particular brand of villainy translate to the WWE audience? Would he need to adapt his style, or could he maintain his House of Torture persona? And what kind of storylines would WWE creative develop for him?
We'll continue to monitor this situation closely and provide updates as we receive them. In the meantime, we want to hear from you! How do you think EVIL would be received in WWE? What potential matchups are you most excited about? And, perhaps more controversially, do you think his style of wrestling would need to change to succeed in WWE's environment? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
