Jay White is being advertised for New Japan Pro-Wrestling events in March. It has been widely reported that White’s contract with the company is due to expire this month. However, a new tweet reveals advertising for March shows at Tokyo’s famed Korakuen Hall that features ‘Switchblade.’
後楽園ホールのエントランス横告知スペースが3月の旗揚げ記念日バージョンに。#旗揚げ記念日#njpw#新日本プロレスpic.twitter.com/RB0FoMyYBa
— カクトウログ📶プロレス/格闘技 (@kakutolog) January 10, 2021
The translated tweet reads Korakuen Hall entrance side announcement space is now the March launch anniversary version.”
Recent reports had suggested that WWE were set to make a ‘strong play’ for White, who headlined night 2 of Wrestle Kingdom against Kota Ibushi. Following the loss, White discussed his intention to leave NJPW, although this was in character:
“I’m not gonna do this anymore…I’ll show up tomorrow (at the New Year’s Dash event) but after that I’m done.”
Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer has also reported that Jay White had a longer-term deal with NJPW. The report states that he signed a 7-year deal in 2018 but this has yet to be confirmed.
The card is always subject to change in wrestling and this advertising could be an indication of the original plans. NJPW has a history of losing talent in January after the Wrestle Kingdom events. In 2016, AJ Styles, Doc Gallows, Karl Anderson, and Shinsuke Nakamura all left before debuting in WWE. 3 years later, Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks, Hangman Page, and Cody Rhodes all left the company after the formation of AEW.
Jay White is currently a leading member of Bullet Club and is a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion. He beat Hiroshi Tanahashi in February 2019 to begin his only reign as champion.