One Big Thing
Jon Moxley reveals he signed with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) before committing to All Elite Wrestling (AEW), after his departure from WWE in 2019.
Why It Matters
This move underscores the increasing fluidity in professional wrestling, where talent navigates multiple promotions to shape their careers post-WWE. Moxley’s dual allegiance to AEW and NJPW exemplifies a growing trend of collaboration between wrestling organizations, fostering a unique cross-promotional dynamism in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Jon Moxley left WWE in 2019 and debuted at AEW’s Double Or Nothing event the same year.
- He also appeared at NJPW Best of Super Juniors 2019 Tournament Final, having signed with NJPW before AEW.
- Moxley expressed a preference for NJPW’s in-ring action and aimed to work with both promotions despite initial tensions.
- He believes his dual contracts have helped foster a better working relationship between AEW and NJPW.
- Moxley recently defeated Tetsuya Naito to win the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship and is set to defend the title on AEW Dynamite against Powerhouse Hobbs.
What They’re Saying
“Japan is the first direction my compass was pointed… I was going to do both [AEW and NJPW],” says Moxley in an interview with Sports Illustrated, highlighting his ambitions to bridge two of the world’s leading promotions.
The Bottom Line
Jon Moxley’s strategic choice to sign with NJPW prior to AEW not only underscores his personal career objectives but also leverages his star power to enhance the relationship between two major wrestling entities. This decision marks a pivotal moment in wrestling’s evolving landscape, where wrestlers increasingly have the freedom and agency to dictate their career paths across global platforms.
What do you think about Jon Moxley’s impact on the relationship between AEW and NJPW? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
