Huge Free Agent Heading To AEW
AEW looks set to book one of the biggest free agents left in wrestling imminently.
Kota Ibushi looks set to appear for AEW in the not-too-distant future.
Fightful Select reports that negotiations between Ibushi and the Tony Khan-helmed promotion have taken place, with AEW talent of the expectation that 'The Golden Star' will feature there soon. The 19 July episode of Dynamite, which is to host the next Blood & Guts match, has been mentioned specifically.
Ibushi has kept a low profile lately, having reduced his media appearances and not wrestled since appearing for GCW over WrestleMania 39 weekend in April.
AEW is yet to announce anything regarding a potential appearance for the 41-year-old. The Blackpool Combat Club and Elite are both one wrestler down for Blood & Guts, which is typically a five-on-five match. Ibushi's prior affiliation with Kenny Omega as one half of the Golden Lovers would make him a natural Elite fit.
Fightful notes that wrestlers who have previously worked for AEW and NJPW have wondered if Ibushi wrestling for Khan's company could strain relationships with New Japan, given Kota's very public split from the puroresu market leaders in recent years. Ibushi has noted, however, that his issues with NJPW have been resolved - to the extent that a contract offer has been extended.