Adam Cole Eyes NJPW Return: Very High Up On My List

One Big Thing

AEW star Adam Cole has expressed strong interest in returning to New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), marking his first potential Japanese appearance since 2017.

Key Details

• Cole’s last NJPW match was against YOSHI-HASHI at ROH/NJPW Honor Rising: Japan 2017
• He previously faced Japanese wrestling legends including Hiroshi Tanahashi and Kazuchika Okada
• His WWE contract previously restricted him from competing in NJPW

Direct Quote

“I definitely want to go back to New Japan,” Cole told Bleacher Report. “I got the chance to wrestle there a few times and I got to do a Wrestle Kingdom show, which was amazing. But then right as I started going to Japan more often is when I left [for WWE].”

By The Numbers

• 5 ROH World Title matches in NJPW
• 1 Wrestle Kingdom appearance
• 6 years since his last NJPW match

Notable NJPW Opponents

• Hiroshi Tanahashi
• Kazuchika Okada
• AJ Styles
• Jushin Thunder Liger
• Will Ospreay

Why It Matters

Cole’s potential return to NJPW could lead to fresh matchups with the current generation of Japanese stars and strengthen the AEW-NJPW partnership. His technical style and charisma make him an ideal candidate for NJPW’s major events.

What’s Next

While no specific plans have been announced, AEW’s working relationship with NJPW through the Forbidden Door partnership makes Cole’s return to Japan a real possibility.

What dream matches would you like to see Adam Cole have in NJPW? Share your thoughts in the comments below.