On April 16, 2025, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) officially announced a significant shakeup within its ranks, revealing that Tetsuya Naito, one of the most popular wrestlers in the organization, will leave the promotion after the upcoming Fukuoka event on May 4, 2025. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty regarding Naito's contract status, which has not been renewed since February 2025, leading him to participate as a freelancer.
Naito's departure marks the end of an era for NJPW, where he has been a central figure since joining the organization in December 2005. His journey began with a fervent passion for pro wrestling, having trained for five years at the prestigious Animal Hamaguchi Gym before making his debut against Katsuhiko Nakajima in May 2006. Over the years, he has captured numerous titles, including the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, and has triumphed in the G1 Climax three times.
In a statement released on their official website, NJPW expressed their support for Naito’s decision, stating, "This decision was made after serious consideration of his future, and we will warmly send him off, hoping he continues to have a brilliant career ahead." They also acknowledged the concerns and confusion this announcement may have caused among fans and expressed their gratitude for the support Naito has received throughout his career.
Alongside Naito, BUSHI, a fellow member of the popular faction Los Ingobernables de Japon (LIJ), will also be exiting the promotion after the Fukuoka event. NJPW confirmed that both wrestlers would compete in their final match together, where they will team up with Hiromu Takahashi and Shingo Takagi to face TAKA Michinoku, Taichi, Zack Sabre Jr., and DOUKI.
Naito's career has been marked by a series of remarkable achievements and memorable moments. He joined Los Ingobernables in 2015 during a tour in Mexico, which significantly elevated his status in the wrestling world. The formation of LIJ with BUSHI later that year solidified his leadership role and helped shape the faction into one of the most influential groups in NJPW history.
Throughout his career, Naito has not only been a champion in the ring but also a charismatic figure who has connected deeply with fans. His unpredictable personality and unique style have made him a fan favorite. In 2020, he made history by becoming the first wrestler to hold both the IWGP Heavyweight and Intercontinental Championships simultaneously, a feat that further cemented his legacy.
As he prepares to leave NJPW, Naito's impact on the promotion cannot be overstated. He has been a key player in some of the most significant storylines and matches in recent years, including his role in Keiji Muto's retirement match in February 2023, which showcased his respect for the legends of the sport.
The announcement of Naito's departure has sent ripples through the wrestling community, with fans expressing their sadness and disbelief on social media. Many are left wondering what the future holds for both Naito and LIJ, as the faction has become synonymous with success and popularity in NJPW.
In addition to Naito and BUSHI, NJPW has seen other notable departures recently, including Jeff Cobb, who announced his exit just days prior. The rapid turnover of talent has raised questions about the future direction of NJPW and how it will adapt to these changes.
As the Fukuoka event approaches, fans are encouraged to come out and support Naito in what will be his final appearance with NJPW. The promotion has expressed hope that Naito will continue to shine in his wrestling career, wherever it may take him next.
In closing, Tetsuya Naito's departure from New Japan Pro-Wrestling signifies not just the end of his contract but the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in the history of the promotion. As he steps away from the organization that has been his home for nearly two decades, the wrestling world watches with bated breath, eager to see where his journey will lead next.
