Jeff Cobb may already be looking toward his next move after WWE released him alongside Tanga Loa and New Day earlier this week.
According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Cobb was backstage at NJPW Wrestling Dontaku following his WWE departure. Dave Meltzer noted that Cobb still appears to have connections within the company despite leaving NJPW earlier this year to sign with WWE.
“I believe he still has a place in Japan.”
Meltzer also pointed out that Cobb’s WWE non-compete clause could create issues if he hopes to return in time for NJPW’s G1 Climax tournament later this summer.
“Unless WWE gives his special dispensation, he would not be able to return in time for G-1 if he does end up here, as the non-compete ends on 7/24.”
Cobb’s WWE run ended surprisingly quickly after debuting for the company at Backlash 2025, where he aligned himself with Solo Sikoa during a major match. WWE later placed him with the MFT faction before ultimately cutting him from the roster.
Before joining WWE, Cobb had built a strong reputation in NJPW as part of the United Empire faction. During his time in Japan, Cobb became a multi-time champion, including three reigns as IWGP Tag Team Champion and a run as NJPW World Television Champion before dropping the title shortly before heading to WWE.
Meltzer also discussed the possibility of Cobb returning to NJPW full-time or potentially landing in AEW, although he noted the landscape may not be as favorable for Cobb now compared to a year ago.
“The reality is his chances of going to AEW as a star were much higher one year ago.”
Meltzer added that while WWE sometimes raises a wrestler’s value after a release, he does not believe that happened in Cobb’s case following his short-lived run with the company.
At the same time, NJPW’s ongoing financial issues were mentioned as a possible factor that could impact whether the promotion attempts to bring Cobb back under contract long-term.
Cobb’s release caught many fans off guard considering how recently he debuted for WWE, and now attention is turning toward whether he ends up back in Japan, lands in AEW, or explores another path entirely after his non-compete period expires.
Where do you think Jeff Cobb should wrestle next after his WWE release? Let us know your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
