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Another major New Japan Pro Wrestling contract is coming to an end. 

Fightful Select's Sean Ross Sapp has learned that David Finlay’s New Japan contract is set to expire "in the near future." Based on what we’ve heard, Finlay is looking to explore his options, especially in America, as there is interest from companies.  He is still expected to work some additional dates after Wrestle Kingdom.

Finlay has been with New Japan Pro Wrestling for nearly 11 years, to the tune of over 800 matches. He became a Global Heavyweight Champion, IWGP Tag Champion, NEVER Openweight Champion and NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champion. 

It is important that we note the natural “Aren’t ALL New Japan contracts up then?” They’re not. A number of NJPW talent actually worked without deals for a number of months in 2025 and re-signed along the way on one year deals. Others signed through the January period.

Finlay's father has ties to WWE, and his brother Brogan is under contract in NXT.

UPDATED: With more accurate specifics.

Comments

Michael Ugwueke

I wouldn’t be surprised if he shows in either WWE, TNA, or AEW. For me personally I hope it’s AEW

SlickWillieFragger

I hope Callum replaces him as the leader of Bullet Club.

Talia

Don't mind me just going to lie on the floor in despair for a while.

Fad42

I think he'd be smart to pit both major US companies against one another, if they truly have interest (and they should, he's very good). His style of work would fit best in AEW, but he obviously has family ties with WWE, both are reasonable outcomes. selfishly, I wish he'd stay in NJPW, I think he's a perfect fit there, but I understand whatever decision he makes.

Megan Loves Professional Wrestling

His brother is Mustash Ponytail! David Finlay would do more wrestling in AEW, but the deck is so stacked there he'd likely be featured on TV in wwe more. Imo.

Aristidis Fantis

David Finlay and Gabe Kidd leaving NJPW for AEW. LFG!!!

Paul Donaldson

I feel like we have this same conversation about David Finlay every year and he stays with NJPW

Keith S

Please AEW.

Eric Mccarthy

Question, since he’s only made 1 appearance during the whole AEW/NJPW partnership despite being kinda a top guy there, do you think that means Tony kinda views him in the same vein as EVIL?

Check1

News on PPV’s makes me think he appears tonight lol

Matt Hennessy

I think he’d be better staying in NJPW I feel like going to AEW or WWE would result in him getting lost in the shuffle. If I was him I’d wait 2 years & then sign with one of the big 2 as many big names in both companies are either retiring or transitioning part time. Then sign. If I were to guess I say he signs with WWE given the family ties