Olympic gold medalist Aaron Wolf has declined an offer from WWE, instead signing with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), with experts suggesting the Brock Lesnar vs Aaron Wolf potential could shift the landscape of pro wrestling. Wolf’s decision comes after his retirement from competitive judo, drawing comparisons with past transitions made by stars like Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle.
Aaron Wolf Begins a New Chapter After Olympic Success
Aaron Wolf secured a judo gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games before announcing his retirement from the sport in June. Shortly after stepping away from judo, Wolf signed a full-time contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, becoming one of the most notable signings for the promotion in recent memory.
According to insights from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer, Wolf will make his NJPW debut at Wrestle Kingdom 20 in January 2026. He will participate as a full-time professional wrestler with the organization. The impact of his Olympic credentials has led many in the industry to suggest that Wolf could form
“the biggest path to superstardom of anyone who has come into pro wrestling from day one.”
—Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer
Meltzer noted that Wolf’s signing generated more buzz than the arrivals of high-profile names such as former IWGP and WWE Champions, Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle. The company also views Wolf as possessing even greater market potential than Lesnar and Angle, due to his Olympic achievements and the popularity he enjoys in Japan. Wolf has publicly expressed his passion for professional wrestling, which has resonated with fans and contributed to his enthusiastic reception.
Why Aaron Wolf Declined WWE’s Offer
Before joining NJPW, Wolf attracted attention from WWE, with reports confirming that the company reached out with a contract offer to the Japanese athlete. Meltzer reported that Wolf described the approach as coming from “a much larger overseas promotion,” hinting that organizations like AEW might have shown interest as well.
When making his decision, the 29-year-old Wolf sought advice from Kazuchika Okada, a renowned figure in the industry. Okada advised that New Japan would be the ideal environment to learn and become the best professional wrestler. This guidance helped Wolf choose a path that aligns with both his ambitions and the heritage of NJPW.
With strong momentum from his signing and the support of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Wolf is being closely watched as the next major prospect in the industry. The Brock Lesnar vs Aaron Wolf potential adds an intriguing angle for fans and analysts as Wolf embarks on his new journey within NJPW, reflecting the company’s commitment to developing global talent and shaping the evolution of pro wrestling.
