WWE are reportedly looking to create partnerships with more Japanese companies, including New Japan.
Over the last month, a working relationship between WWE and AJPW was formed which saw William Regal announce that his son and NXT star Charlie Dempsey would compete in an All Japan ring. He has since competed against some of AJPW’s best and even challenged Katsuhiko Nakajima for the company’s Triple Crown Championship, albeit unsuccessfully.
Now, per Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it appears as if WWE’s willingness to work with other promotions is only growing stronger, with it believed that Triple H and Nick Khan could be looking for more Japanese allies to work with off the back of their AJPW partnership. It’s said that finding a women’s wrestling company to work with is something they’d be interested in.
“Paul Levesque and perhaps Nick Khan are looking at Japanese allies going forward with the step one with All Japan this week and are looking for a women’s group ally as well. Obviously there is an All Japan/NXT alliance with Charlie Dempsey going there this week and Katsuhiko Nakajima, whose style is the farthest thing from what WWE does, talking about defending the Triple Crown here.”
-Dave Meltzer
In particular, Meltzer revealed that there has been internal talk with WWE of potentially trying to approach New Japan Pro Wrestling with regard to an alliance with Hiroshi Tanahashi now holding presidency of the promotion.
“There has been talk internally of them trying to make another go with New Japan, now that Hiroshi Tanahashi is president. With AEW having Forbidden Door which has been a major success for both sides the past two years, that would be a key factor in play for continuing the relationship with AEW.”
-Dave Meltzer
Many were surprised to see WWE agree to work with AJPW towards the end of last year, with most assuming it was a one off. However, it seems as if more working relationships are possible and it seems as if the situation is certainly one to keep an eye on.
As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on WWE’s working relationship with AJPW and any future partnerships as we hear more.
