Despite recently becoming a free agent, NJPW legend Tetsuya Naito may struggle to secure a long-term deal outside Japan, with WWE insiders expressing concerns over his physical condition.
According to Fightful Select, sources within WWE have doubts that the 42-year-old would be able to pass the company’s required medical tests. Naito, a veteran of over 20 years in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, has battled multiple knee injuries throughout his career, raising questions about his long-term in-ring viability.
“Tetsuya Naito is a free agent, but the market isn’t looking robust for him,” the report stated. “The 42-year-old has battled injuries in recent years, to the point that those that we spoke to in NJPW and WWE said that even if WWE were interested, they had concerns that Naito would be able to pass WWE physicals.”
Naito, who turns 43 in June, has maintained star power in Japan but may face limited options abroad due to his injury history. WWE’s physical testing is known for its strict standards, and the company appears hesitant to engage with a talent who may not meet them.
Fightful also reported that AEW is unlikely to offer Naito a full-time role.
“Sources in AEW said that they would ‘be surprised’ if AEW offered Naito anything beyond occasional appearances when things fit,” the report added.
While opportunities in the U.S. may be limited, sources suggest that Naito could remain active in Japan.
“Most that we spoke to in NJPW believed that he could still make occasional appearances, but that a lot of it will come down to money. Some that are familiar with Naito believe that he will try his hand at NOAH.”
Naito’s future, for now, remains uncertain as his next move draws speculation.
Which Former NJPW Star Is WWE Reportedly Interested In Signing?
It was reported that WWE is interested in signing former NJPW star and recent free agent Jeff Cobb. It was announced on April 14 that Cobb would be leaving NJPW, but prior to that, it was reported that the company could look to sign Cobb, with the same report stating that sources within AEW did not expect Cobb to become All Elite.
In recent news, Tetsuya Naito has wrestled his final match in NJPW.