5 Potential first WWE opponents for Kushida

On January 7 2019, it was announced that Kushida would be leaving New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Kenny Omega stole many of the headlines as it was also announced he would be leaving but Kushida is a world-class professional wrestler in his own right and is a 6-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, amongst many other accolades.

While rumors are swirling as to whether Omega will sign with WWE, AEW or even shockingly return to NJPW after all, Kushida's own free agency hasn't caused quite the frenzy it perhaps deserves.

It has long been understood that Triple H is a big admirer of Kushida and his work and so the prevailing theory is that Kushida is indeed headed for WWE. Kushida has stated: "I will head overseas to see the world of pro wrestling" and given his high status in NJPW one can only presume this is him hinting at joining the only company that could be considered bigger.

Kushida is admittedly no spring chicken at 35 and so it remains to be seen whether he would be thrust straight into main roster action or forced to prove himself in NXT if he were to make the switch to WWE.

While a surprise Rumble debut would be a dream scenario, Kushida is under contract until the end of January making this impossible. With all these factors in mind, here are 5 Superstars who would make perfect opponents for Kushida if/when he makes his WWE debut:

#5 Kassius Ohno

Ohno is yet to face Kushida but could he be a good first opponent?

Brand: NXT

Times shared a ring: 0

Singles matches: 0

While these two have not shared a ring before, it would be surprising if these two weren't able to put on a great match. Kassius Ohno has established himself as the gate-keeper of NXT and typically takes issue with whoever the brand's hot new signee is at any particular moment.

The story here writes itself as Ohno can once again become jealous of the attention and treatment Kushida would receive upon signing and either directly challenge or attack Kushida to set up a match. The feud would quickly give Kushida legitimacy and propel him up the ranks on the black and yellow brand nice and quickly.