Kazuchika Okada, the current AEW International Champion, recently addressed a significant update concerning New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). The Rainmaker acknowledged a statement made by Takaaki Kidani, Bushiroad’s owner, through social media, expressing his gratitude for the recognition.
Following his loss of the AEW Continental title at the 2025 Continental Classic final during the Worlds End event last month, Okada returned to NJPW stages. At WrestleKingdom 20, he faced his long-time rival Hiroshi Tanahashi in a highly anticipated match, emerging victorious as Tanahashi’s last opponent before retirement.
Conversation Between Bushiroad Owner and Okada at Tokyo Dome
Takaaki Kidani, who controls the majority stake in NJPW through Bushiroad, shared details of a lengthy conversation he had with Okada at the Tokyo Dome. Taking to X, Kidani expressed his appreciation for Okada’s performance at WrestleKingdom 20, calling it
“the biggest match of the century.”
“It was hectic at the Dome, but we were able to have a long talk. Thank you for your hard work in the biggest match of the century,” Kidani wrote.
In response, Okada publicly thanked Kidani as well, emphasizing respect and gratitude toward the NJPW affiliated figure.
“Thank you so much, Mr. Kitaya!!!”
Okada Voices Criticism of NJPW While Praising AEW Atmosphere
In a recent live stream alongside Japanese wrestler Toru Yano, Okada openly criticized NJPW’s management, noting the lack of personal acknowledgement after his WrestleKingdom 20 bout against Tanahashi. Okada highlighted how no NJPW officials approached him backstage to offer congratulations or thanks, contrasting it with his experience in AEW.
“After the match, no one from the office or management came to the locker room. Not a single person said ‘good job’ or ‘Thank You Okada’. Nothing. In AEW, Tony Khan is the boss, but he always shows up backstage, shakes hands, and shows appreciation for what we do. It’s a small thing, but it matters,” Okada stated.
Despite stepping back from NJPW’s immediate spotlight, Okada still retains the AEW International Championship, leaving fans eager to see when he will return to AEW television.
The Road Ahead for Kazuchika Okada and NJPW Relations
Kazuchika Okada’s recent remarks underline ongoing tensions between his experiences in NJPW and AEW, spotlighting differences in backstage culture and management recognition. With Okada maintaining a major AEW title and a legacy tied to NJPW, his future moves could significantly influence wrestling’s evolving landscape. Observers and fans will watch closely to see how this relationship develops and what impact it has on both promotions.
木谷さんありがとうございました！！！ https://t.co/8Q76jShGwK
— Kazuchika Okada (@rainmakerXokada) January 15, 2026
