This year has seen some big changes for New Japan Pro Wrestling, and that might not be ending.
Friday night on Smackdown, Tama Tonga debuted for WWE, joining the Bloodline. After years of playing footsie with WWE, Tonga finally joined. He'd previously confirmed to Fightful that both he and Hikuleo had conversations with WWE in 2023.
Fightful Select has learned that although his tag team partner El Phantasmo’s NJPW contract was only through January (as of Wrestle Kingdom when we spoke with them), Hikuleo’s was a bit longer. As of recent months, we had been told that Hikuleo's deal ran into June. We haven't heard an update on if he's got a new deal, or what kind of deal Phantasmo is on right now either, but the two are actively teaming.
Hikuleo and Tama Tonga both had talks with WWE last year, but Vince McMahon forcing his way back into the company, many potential deals were put on hold.
We have inquired directly regarding Hikuleo's contract status, but didn't get an answer.
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