KUSHIDA talks signing with TNA Wrestling.
On December 13, TNA Wrestling announced that NJPW star KUSHIDA had signed with the promotion. KUSHIDA has been active with NJPW in recent months, but he has also wrestled for IMPACT on several occasions throughout 2023. He last competed for the company at IMPACT 1000 in September.
Speaking with Tim Battle on the Battleground Podcast, KUSHIDA commented on signing with TNA.
“I’m so happy. I’m so excited. I want to say my contract status…the relationship between me and New Japan Pro-Wrestling can remain, and there is no need [to] change. So I also signed with TNA. I would like to thank Scott D’Amore," KUSHIDA said.
KUSHIDA was also asked to discuss what influenced his decision to sign with TNA, and he highlighted his friendships with Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin. He noted that they have influenced him throughout his career.
“One of the reasons I chose TNA is because of my good friends, Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin. These two people have influenced my life. I always felt that my work was close to these two people. So Sabin, Alex Shelley, KUSHIDA, all signed to [the] same company, I can’t believe it. I’m so excited for next year," KUSHIDA said.
KUSHIDA previously said he wanted to be the face of IMPACT. He won the Ultimate X match at IMPACT Slammiversary, and he has also competed for the world title in 2023.
KUSHIDA last wrestled at NJPW Lonestar Shootout on November 10. It is not known when he will return to the ring for TNA.
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