From the NJPW Rumor Mill: Huge update on Kenny Omega's NJPW contract
What’s the story?
According to Wrestling Observer, Kenny Omega is bound to stay in New Japan Pro Wrestling, and past his current contract which expires on January 31, 2018. The report further states that Omega could get a better contract from the promotion when his current one expires.
In case you didn’t know...
Omega’s contract with NJPW was a major talking point in wrestling circles last year. There were rumours about Omega leaving the promotion as well. But those were shot down when he eventually signed a new deal.
Omega had stated that he was staying with NJPW as the promotion allowed wrestlers to express themselves.
The heart of the matter
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer noted that Kenny Omega could land a new deal with New Japan Pro Wrestling when his current contract expires. The new contract would have a considerable rise in pay and creative control, as per Meltzer.
The reigning IWGP United States Champion is also advertised for many NJPW shows in 2018 that are beyond his current contract. This is apparently because NJPW officials are almost sure about Omega signing a new deal.
What's next?
Omega is set to feature in a high profile match with Chris Jericho at Wrestle Kingdom 12 on January 4th. Jericho challenged Omega to the match during NJPW Power Struggle earlier this month and the challenge was accepted by The Cleaner as well.
Beyond this, Omega is also advertised for Ring of Honor’s Super Card of Honor event on April 7th and is expected to be one of the major attractions of the show.
Author’s take
Unlike last year, the chances of Kenny Omega leaving NJPW are very slim this time around. He has already made his intentions clear on numerous platforms and has not held back at taking shots at the WWE.
If Omega does leave NJPW, it would be one of the biggest swerves in recent professional wrestling history. Though this might not happen, never say never in the wrestling business.