Ex-WWE Star Now a Free Agent After Rejecting NJPW Contract Renewal

TJ Perkins is back on the open market, and he’s not rushing to sign on any dotted lines.

According to a new report from Fightful Select, the former WWE Cruiserweight Champion and NJPW standout has officially entered free agency. “New Japan Pro Wrestling made a contract offer, but TJP declined it,” reported Sean Ross Sapp. Despite turning down the deal, sources noted that “there was no ill will on either side.”

Perkins may have turned down a full-time contract, but he’s not completely parting ways with NJPW. He’s still expected to appear at several upcoming shows for the company as a freelancer. However, one major appearance he won’t be making is in the upcoming Best of the Super Juniors tournament.

Per Fightful’s sources, “TJP was also requested for the upcoming Super Junior tournament, but passed on this as well,” even though NJPW had big plans for him to have a “prominent role in the tourney.”

While the door remains open for future collaborations, TJP seems content charting his own course for now. The 3-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion has carved out a unique career, bouncing from WWE to NJPW and beyond, and his next move is anyone’s guess.

Do you want to see TJ Perkins back in WWE, AEW, or somewhere new entirely? Where should TJP take his talents next? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear from you.