We’ve known it’s been coming for months, but the idea of former IWGP Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura seemed wholly unreal. Unreal, that is, until now.
The King of Strong Style made his WWE debut at NXT TakeOver: Dallas against beloved former NXT Champion Sami Zayn. As you can see above, Nakamura entered the ring to an incredible reception.
Back in January, New Japan Pro Wrestling stripped Nakamura of his IWGP title ahead of his departure. With his contract with NJPW up, he was free to officially sign with WWE.
Nakamura is part of an influx of New Japan talent, joining former Bullet Club leader Finn Balor in NXT. Another former Bullet Club member, AJ Styles, already made his WWE debut. At some point two other members in Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson will be joining them. Kota Ibushi recently left New Japan after returning from injury, and is expected to be part of WWE’s Global Cruiserweight Series.
