Speculation surrounding Iyo Sky relationship rumors intensified after an NJPW star linked to her was seen backstage at recent WWE events, sparking discussion about his future in professional wrestling. The development comes at a critical time as reports suggest this NJPW performer might be weighing his options outside of Japan.
Uncertainty Over NJPW Star’s Future and AEW Possibility
Following NJPW’s major Wrestle Kingdom 20 event, which saw Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement bout against Kazuchika Okada, another key moment emerged involving Evil, whose real name is Takaaki Watanabe. After suffering defeat to Aaron Wolf in the NEVER Openweight Championship contest, chatter grew within the Japanese wrestling community that Evil could be preparing to depart New Japan Pro Wrestling. Sources indicate, however, that All Elite Wrestling (AEW) seems unlikely as a destination. Reports from Fightful Select cite that AEW’s leadership, including Tony Khan, reportedly does not view Evil’s work with enthusiasm, diminishing possibilities of him transitioning to the American promotion.
In the midst of career speculation, attention turned to WWE as a potential landing spot for Evil. This talk grew stronger alongside circulating rumors about his rumored romantic involvement with WWE Women’s World Champion Iyo Sky.
Previous Engagement Reports and WWE Backstage Sightings
Historical context adds layers to these rumors. During a December 2019 episode of WWE NXT, commentator Mauro Ranallo referenced the engagement between Io Shirai (now known as Iyo Sky) and Evil. Soon after, wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer relayed on Wrestling Observer Radio that Iyo Sky was experiencing discontent in WWE, which was attributed to being separated from her fiancé at the time.
Both Japanese wrestling stars have generally remained silent about their personal relationships, adhering to privacy norms common in their culture. Yet, curiosity and conversations reignited each time Evil was spotted backstage during major WWE events. Reports confirmed his presence at both WrestleMania 40 and the recently held WrestleMania 41.
Eyewitness accounts, along with video evidence from these high-profile events, highlighted Evil’s presence during significant moments—most noticeably in Las Vegas at WrestleMania, where he was observed behind the scenes as Iyo Sky shared a hug with The Undertaker following her triple threat match against Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair.
“You can see clearly it’s evil🤣 https://t.co/iJ8LfR5Ts4″— Izzuddin Akmal, Fan
Speculation Mounts Over WWE Prospects
As these public glimpses keep fueling the rumors, the wrestling industry and fans alike are left to wonder whether Evil’s ongoing appearances are a precursor to a major shift in his career and personal life. Stirring connections with WWE—both professionally and personally through Iyo Sky—raise the possibility that the NJPW veteran may soon make a transition to the Stamford-based wrestling giant.
For now, all eyes remain on both stars, as their next moves could impact storylines and the broader landscape of professional wrestling, particularly considering the strong reactions and interest these rumors continue to evoke among fans and within the wrestling world.
Japanese wrestlers do it all the time. Nobody knew EVIL and Io Shirai were even dating, let alone married before Mauro Ranallo let it slip on NXT
— Shooting Star Press (@TSSPTweets) June 1, 2023
You can see clearly it’s evil🤣 https://t.co/iJ8LfR5Ts4
— Izzuddin Akmal (@Izdnakmal) April 25, 2025
