Wrestling News January 30 2026

 # WWE Bound? NJPW Star EVIL Leaving Japan, Royal Rumble Surprises, and Jericho’s Status Revealed

The professional wrestling world is on fire this Friday, January 30, 2026, as we sit just 24 hours away from the Royal Rumble in Riyadh. From shocking departures in Japan to massive returns being spotted at the airport, today’s news cycle is packed with landscape-shifting updates. 

Here is your breakdown of the top stories and rumors from *Wrestling Observer*, *Fightful*, and *PWInsider*.

## EVIL Set to Leave NJPW; Heavy Ties to WWE

In what is being described as a major blow to New Japan Pro Wrestling, the promotion has officially announced that **EVIL** (Takaaki Watanabe) will leave the company when his contract expires at the end of January. 

According to Dave Meltzer and Sean Ross Sapp, the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion is heavily expected to sign with **WWE**. While there was interest from other Japanese promotions, EVIL is reportedly set on relocating to the United States. Interestingly, reports indicate that **AEW** is not currently a landing spot for the House of Torture leader, making a move to the Performance Center or the main roster almost certain.

## Royal Rumble Spoilers: Tiffany Stratton and Nikki Bella Spotted

The road to the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is paved with surprises. **PWInsider Elite** has confirmed that **Tiffany Stratton** is backstage and slated to compete in the Women’s Royal Rumble match. Stratton has been out of action since November 2025, and her return adds significant star power to the bout.

Even more shocking, **Nikki Bella** was reportedly spotted on a flight heading to Riyadh. With Triple H recently teasing that this year’s Rumble would be "one of the most star-studded" in history, a Hall of Fame cameo from a Bella Twin seems to fit the bill perfectly.

## The Chris Jericho Free Agency Mystery

Where in the world is **Chris Jericho**? Despite his AEW contract reportedly expiring in late 2025, "The Learning Tree" is still listed on the AEW active roster page. 

While rumors of a WWE return have reached a fever pitch—fueled by a subtle social media nod from Raw GM Adam Pearce—**Fightful Select** reports that WWE has not yet discussed any concrete creative plans for Jericho. Is he playing both sides, or is a "hush-hush" deal already signed for a Rumble appearance? The speculation continues.

## Injury Update: Rey Mysterio’s Status for Riyadh

There was significant concern following *Monday Night Raw* after **Rey Mysterio** appeared to suffer a shoulder and knee injury during his match with Austin Theory. However, there is good news for the Lucha legend.

Dave Meltzer reports that the injury is "not serious." Mysterio has already arrived in Riyadh and has been spotted looking in good spirits with Penta and Dragon Lee. While he hasn’t been 100% officially cleared by WWE medical as of this morning, the internal word is that he will be ready to go for the 30-Man Rumble match tomorrow.

## Lucha Libre: Penta’s "Company-Shifting" Announcement

Over in the world of Lucha Libre, **Penta** has officially announced the return of the **Rey de Reyes** tournament for AAA. The stakes are massive: the winner will earn a shot at the AAA Mega Championship, currently held by WWE's own **Dominik Mysterio**.

Meanwhile, the CMLL landscape is bracing for the arrival of **MxM TV**. Mason Madden, Mansoor, and Johnny TV are scheduled for a high-profile appearance at tonight's *Viernes Espectacular* at the legendary Arena Mexico.

## Stardom: Saya Kamitani’s Violent Return

After a hiatus following *Wrestle Kingdom 20*, **Saya Kamitani** made her presence felt at the *New Year Stars* event in Tokyo. She shocked the audience by attacking **Starlight Kid** and cutting a scathing promo. Kamitani declared that her "paid leave" is officially over, announcing her in-ring return for Stardom’s *Supreme Fight* on February 7th in Osaka.

## AEW & TNA Quick Hits: Roster Moves and Collaborations

*   **AEW International Title:** It’s official—**Kazuchika Okada** will defend his title against the rising **Adam Priest** on next week’s *Dynamite*.

*   **TNA Signing:** **Bear Bronson** has officially put pen to paper on a full-time TNA contract. He has recently found a home as the powerhouse of **The System** faction alongside Brian Myers and Eddie Edwards.

*   **AEW x Adult Swim:** Rumors are swirling regarding a new collaborative project between AEW and Adult Swim. Expect an official teaser or announcement within the coming weeks.

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### **What Do You Think?**

Will EVIL thrive in the WWE system, or should he have stayed in Japan? And who is your pick for the surprise entrant of the night at the Royal Rumble? 

**Sound off in the comments below!**