WWE Rumors: Kazuchika Okada Spoke with WWE Talent amid Free-Agency Contract Decision

As Kazuchika Okada prepares to hit free agency when he leaves NJPW in February, he's taking his time to gauge interest from the top North American wrestling promotions.

Per Fightful Select (h/t Steve Carrier of Ringside News), WWE confirmed that it has engaged in talks with Okada's representatives recently. While discussions remain in the preliminary stage, Okada reportedly personally reached out to some WWE Superstars in hopes of gaining intel that would help him eventually make his decision.

"WWE sources confirmed that there have been talks between Okada's side and WWE," the report stated. "There have been WWE talent that confirmed that over the last few weeks, Okada has been in contact with others on the roster to gauge his offers, WWE's approach, and to help weigh a decision. We have not heard of any creative plans in place for Okada, or any specific pitches that may or may not have been thrown his way."

Okada is believed to have mutual interest in joining WWE, as Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated (h/t Subhojeet Mukherjee of Ringside News) reported recently that Okada "has always wanted to perform at a WrestleMania." As WrestleMania 40 faces significant changes in the wake of CM Punk's injury, landing Okada would be a coup for WWE.

Universally regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers in the world, Okada is set to hit the open market when his contract with NJPW expires. In addition to garnering interest from WWE, he has also reportedly received a "substantial" offer from AEW, and the company is "confident" in its chances of signing him. AEW reportedly has already made tentative plans for Okada's potential debut, which would occur over a month from now.

The next landing spot of "The Rainmaker" is sure to have massive ramifications on the landscape of pro wrestling, as fans are salivating to see him compete full-time in one of the top promotions.

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