NJPW have quietly removed ‘Switchblade’ Jay White from the roster page on both their Japanese and English-language websites.
While no official announcement has been made, the move will further fuel speculation that ‘King Switch’ is leaving Japan behind. Following his Wrestle Kingdom 15 main event loss to IWGP Heavyweight and Intercontinental Champion Kota Ibushi, White announced his intention to quit the company during a rant against his treatment by not only NJPW but the media and fans as well.
While his words were widely seen as being made in kayfabe at the time, and NJPW have have advertised the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion for their March tour, there have since been reports that WWE is making a strong play for him. The Super J-Cast podcast tweeted that it is currently 50/50 whether White will stay with the company who trained him, or seek to make a name for himself in the largest pro-wrestling organisation on the planet.
It has also been speculated that the current Bullet Club leader could join other NJPW alumni in jumping to AEW. However, when asked about that possibility, AEW Commentator Tony Schiavone revealed that he doesn’t think it will happen, citing that he believed White is locked into what he’s currently doing in Japan.
Keep an eye on Inside the Ropes for news of where Jay White appears next!