Kazuchika Okada, a leading star in AEW, has declared his ambition to capture the AEW World Heavyweight Championship and bring the title back to Japan. Known for his exceptional wrestling career spanning NJPW and AEW, Okada’s focus is now set on dominating AEW’s premier division.
Okada’s Path and Ambitions in AEW
Kazuchika Okada earned his reputation as one of the world’s top professional wrestlers during his dominant run in NJPW before moving to AEW. After aligning himself with The Elite and later the Don Callis Family, he won several titles, including the AEW International and Continental Championships. Although he lost the Continental Title to Jon Moxley, Okada remains intent on achieving greater success.
In a recent interview with Tokyo Sports, Okada expressed his clear goal to win the AEW World Heavyweight Championship. His desire is not just to claim the belt but to return to Japan as its holder, signaling his commitment to proving himself on AEW’s biggest stage.
“I still have the International belt, but I definitely need to aim for the AEW main event (World) Heavyweight belt. I’ve been fighting in different title matches for a long time, so I want to go there and win the belt. And I hope to come back to Japan with that in mind.” ?T Drainmaker, Interview
Okada’s Reflections on NJPW Management After Wrestle Kingdom 20
Following a legendary match at Wrestle Kingdom 20 against Hiroshi Tanahashi, who was wrestling in his retirement bout, Okada expressed dissatisfaction with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) management. Their match received widespread acclaim, including a six-star rating from wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, marking it as a momentous encounter.
Despite the critical praise, Okada was disappointed that no NJPW officials met him backstage to acknowledge the match or offer words of appreciation. During a livestream with Toru Yano, Okada contrasted this with his experiences in AEW, emphasizing the value of recognition from leadership.
“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,” said Okada. ?AIR, Livestream with Toru Yano
Future Prospects and Potential Appearances
Okada’s comments raise questions about his future involvement with NJPW, especially as he currently builds momentum within AEW. His ongoing pursuit of the AEW World Title could signify a longer-term commitment to the American promotion, where he finds a more supportive backstage environment. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this rivalry evolves and if Okada’s goal of returning to Japan as AEW World Champion becomes reality.
Kazuchika Okada wants to win the AEW Men's World Championship next and come back to Japan with it:
“I still have the International belt, but I definitely need to aim for the AEW main event (World) Heavyweight belt. I’ve been fighting in different title matches for a long time,… pic.twitter.com/kLQcOGZMX7
— Drainmaker (@TheDrainmaker) January 15, 2026
Kazuchika Okada was unhappy with NJPW's management following Tanahashi’s retirement match:
“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… pic.twitter.com/2GHSlZrd4A
— AIR (@AIRGold_) January 12, 2026
