NJPW Retain Yota Tsuji and Drilla Moloney, But is David Finlay Heading for the Exit?

NJPW The New Beginning in Osaka lived up to its name in more ways than one. The event packed more than a few punches and began many new narratives and feuds to excite fans for the year ahead. But it also seemed to bring several stories to a close.

The departing Hiromu Takahashi ended his NJPW tenure with a tag team victory over United Empire. His emotional stablemates bid the Time Bomb farewell, but the junior heavyweight admitted that he still dreams of capturing NJPW’s biggest title, the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. His initial 16-year run at the company may be over, but Takahashi has left the door open for a return in the future.

Yota Tsuji Extends His NJPW Contract

Speaking of the IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Yota Tsuji has provided some positive news for NJPW fans. The Unbound Co. member has extended his stay at New Japan, which began in 2018.

Sharing the news on social media, Tsuji wrote, “Yesterday, I signed a contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
In this SNS-driven information society, don’t forget to verify the true essence of things for yourself.”

Tsuji has ascended the NJPW hierarchy in rapid fashion over the last few years. A New Japan Cup win in 2024 helped him graduate to main event status, priming him for his IWGP Global Heavyweight and IWGP World Heavyweight Championship reigns. With major talents exiting, Tsuji’s retention suggests that “Gene Blast” will continue to be one of the faces of NJPW’s new era.

Drilla Moloney Re-signs with NJPW, Declares for New Japan Cup

With the Bullet Club and the War Dogs’ NJPW presence in serious doubt, Drilla Moloney’s commitment to the Japanese promotion is another huge positive for 2026. Moloney and Shingo Takagi were victorious over United Empire at The New Beginning in Osaka, with the Englishman picking up the pin.

After the match, Moloney seized the microphone in the middle of the ring and addressed the Osaka crowd. The commentary team was a little unsure of Moloney’s intentions. His tone suggested that he might be about to follow Takahashi out the exit. But thankfully, Moloney has different intentions for the year ahead.

Moloney revealed that he had officially re-signed with NJPW and that he would be competing in this year’s New Japan Cup. If he can win, he’ll be the third Englishman to triumph in the tournament after Zack Sabre Jr and Will Ospreay.

Has David Finlay Kissed NJPW Goodbye?

It was an emotional night for David Finlay at The New Beginning in Osaka. After falling to Callum Newman in singles competition, Finlay bowed to the Osaka audience. Upon leaving the ring, he kissed the NJPW badge at the top of the stage and said, “Thank you.”