WWE In Huge NXT Japan Talks With AJPW?

Could WWE be on the verge of striking a deal with one of Japan's biggest promotions?

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WWE/AJPW

WWE has been locked in secretive talks with prominent Japanese promotion AJPW since last summer.

This is according to a new report from Tokyo Sports (via Eastern Lariat) stating that the two promotions "have been in confidential contact several times," with NXT Japan reportedly on the agenda.

A Yahoo Japan story notes that Triple H originally met with AJPW head honcho Jun Akiyama to talk about WWE's Japanese expansion last June. The two have remained in contact ever since and AJPW has today announced that Akiyama will head to the WWE Performance Center for a guest coaching stint in May, with another Triple H meeting on the cards.

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While much of the NXT Japan chatter is just speculation at this point, it's in-line with WWE's reported plans in the country. We already know they plan on announcing a new Performance Center soon. On top of this, Vince McMahon and co. have previously mounted failed attempts at purchasing Pro Wrestling Noah, Stardom, and Dragon Gate, leaving few viable partners on the table.

While AJPW's business has declined immensely since their '90s prime, their ace, Kento Miyahara, is among the most revered wrestlers in the country. He'd be one hell of an asset to build NXT Japan around.

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Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.