Tetsuya Naito and NJPW have mutually agreed not to renew Naito's contract with the company.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling's statement will make all of his scheduled appearances through the Dontaku tour on May 4.
Thank you for supporting New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
In recent weeks, conversations have been ongoing between New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Tetsuya Naito regarding Naito's future wrestling activities. As a result of those conversations, both parties have mutually agreed not to renew Naito's contract with NJPW.
Both parties have arrived at this decision after careful consideration and lengthy conversation. Naito's contract ends on the best possible terms with NJPW, which joins fans in wishing Naito's further success in any and all future endeavours.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling deeply apologises to NJPW and Naito fans for any concern this announcement may cause. Naito will make all of his scheduled appearances through the Dontaku series concluding May 4 in Fukuoka, and looks forward to your ongoing support.
Naito's contract with NJPW reportedly expired on January 31st and he's been working as a freelancer.
Naito has been with the company since 2006 and is a two-time IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, a three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion, and six-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion.
