Ulka Sasaki Officially Joins WWE NXT for New Excursion

Ulka Sasaki WWE NXT — Ulka Sasaki begins WWE NXT journey at Florida Performance Center. [Image Source: WWE]

February 20, 2026

Ulka Sasaki, known for his work with Pro Wrestling NOAH, has arrived in the United States to start his WWE NXT tenure. The 36-year-old athlete, with a background in UFC and MMA through promotions like Rizin and Shooto, confirmed his relocation through a recent vlog, revealing he is training in Florida as part of WWE‘s Performance Center program.

Career Highlights and Path to WWE

Sasaki’s wrestling career took off a little over two years ago with NOAH, where he earned the GHC National Championship and GHC Tag Team titles. His last match before embarking on this new chapter was a bout against KENTA on January 11. The move to WWE NXT marks a significant step in expanding his professional wrestling presence internationally.

Support from WWE Stars and Established Relationships

In Sasaki’s vlog, he shared that WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura, whom Sasaki faced during a NOAH event in January 2025, visited him after his arrival in the United States to offer advice on adapting to the new environment.

“Shinsuke Nakamura made sure to come see him after his arrival and give him advice on adjusting to the United States.”

– Ulka Sasaki’s vlog

The WWE-NOAH Partnership and Talent Exchanges

The collaboration between WWE and Pro Wrestling NOAH has enabled several talent exchanges. Wrestlers like Yoshiki Inamura have spent extended periods in NXT before returning to NOAH. Additionally, WWE competitors such as Omos, Hank Walker, Tank Ledger, Charlie Dempsey, Harlem Lewis, Tavion Heights, and Josh Briggs have performed in Japan, broadening global wrestling connections.

Looking Ahead: The Significance of Sasaki’s Move

Ulka Sasaki’s arrival at WWE NXT reflects the growing partnership between NOAH and WWE, offering wrestlers new development opportunities in global markets. His experience and titles earned in Japan suggest he could make an impactful addition to NXT’s roster. As he adjusts to training at the Performance Center in Florida, fans and industry observers will watch closely how Sasaki’s unique background influences his growth within WWE.

Khalid Haikal is a journalist at CynicalTimes.org, specializing in coverage of the WWE NXT Men’s Division. With six years of experience in professional wrestling journalism, he delivers expert analysis, detailed match reports, and behind-the-scenes insights from WWE’s developmental brand. Khalid’s work spotlights the breakout stars, evolving storylines, and championship pursuits shaping the future of WWE. Known for his accuracy and depth, he connects fans with the rising talent and high-impact moments that define NXT. Whether it's a debut, a rivalry, or a title change, Khalid captures every key moment with clarity and authority.