Kevin Kelly Leaves NJPW
NJPW confirms long-serving English-language commentator's departure.
New Japan Pro Wrestling and long-serving English-language commentator Kevin Kelly have formally parted ways.
NJPW announced Kelly's exit in a statement released on Tuesday, reading:
Thank you for supporting New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
Kevin Kelly, who has been the English voice of New Japan broadcasts since King of Pro-Wrestling 2015, has departed NJPW to pursue outside opportunities.
Kevin was originally planning to join the English broadcast of Wrestle Kingdom 18 on January 4, but will be unable to attend due to family commitments.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling joins fans in their gratitude for the work Kevin has done to grow the English-speaking audience for NJPW, and for countless memorable calls over the years. We wish Kevin the very best in his future.
Kelly, who has since taken up a position in AEW Collision's announce booth, has been replaced by Walker Stewart, who confirmed he was taking the position in October.
Kelly cited the following as the reason for his departure back in September:
My wife of 32 years said she doesn't want to be alone anymore so that's why I made the decision. https://t.co/NIIbr1wZjr
Advertisement— Kevin Kelly (@realkevinkelly) September 5, 2023
A broadcaster since 1991, Kelly was best known for his WWE stint from 1996 to 2003 before connecting with NJPW in 2015. He became a vital cog in the 'King of Sports'' global expansion, providing English commentary alongside a variety of partners including Steve Corino, Don Callas, and more recently, Chris Charlton, increasing the promotion's accessibility to Western audiences.