• Top NJPW Star Is Reportedly Coming To WWE
The “King of Darkness” is preparing to trade the cerulean blue ring for the bright lights of WWE. After a decade and a half as a cornerstone of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, the 38-year-old EVIL has reportedly given his notice to the promotion, marking the end of an era for the House of Torture leader.
According to Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live, the rumors of EVIL’s departure have shifted from speculation to a “strong” likelihood. Super J-Cast further corroborated the move, reporting that the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion has officially signaled his exit with WWE as the primary destination.
The shift comes after a high-profile loss at Wrestle Kingdom 20, where EVIL dropped the NEVER Openweight Title to Aaron Wolf, a match that many now see as his “putting over” the next generation on his way out the door.
Interestingly, while many NJPW stars often look toward AEW as a potential landing spot, that door appears firmly shut. Reports suggest Tony Khan is famously “not a fan” of EVIL’s polarizing, interference-heavy style, leaving the path to Triple H’s WWE wide open.
• Huge Name Might Be Returning To WWE TV Soon
One of the most iconic sounds in wrestling history—the shattering of glass—might be echoing through a WWE arena sooner than anyone anticipated. According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, the name “Stone Cold” Steve Austin has suddenly become a hot topic across multiple internal departments at WWE headquarters.
While sources caution that nothing is set in stone, the mere fact that Austin’s name is circulating suggests that The Texas Rattlesnake is back on the creative radar. This isn’t just idle talk; the internal buzz indicates that high-level discussions are happening regarding a potential appearance in the “near future.”
This wouldn’t be the first time WWE swung for the fences with Austin. Fightful Select previously revealed that Stone Cold was the subject of serious pitches for a blockbuster match against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39, and Austin himself later confirmed he was approached for a cameo at WrestleMania 40 (the role which eventually went to The Undertaker).
While those specific plans didn’t materialize, the current “circulating” interest suggests that Triple H and his team are looking for a massive nostalgia pop to anchor the upcoming season.
Whether it’s for a segment at Royal Rumble 2026 in Saudi Arabia or a featured spot at WrestleMania 42, the internal machinery is clearly whirring for one more round of stunners and beer bashes.
Stone Cold Steve Austin last appeared on WWE programming at WrestleMania 41, where he announced the attendance.
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