WWE Already Planted Seeds for NJPW Star’s Debut Amid AEW Interest

David Finlay may be done with New Japan Pro Wrestling—and both AEW and WWE know it. After over a decade with the company, Finlay appears to be wrapping up his time in Japan as major U.S. promotions line up for his next move.

At The New Beginning in Osaka on February 11, 2026, Finlay lost to Callum Newman in a singles match and delivered what looked like a farewell. After the bout, he bowed to the crowd, hugged NJPW booker Gedo, kissed the NJPW logo, and said “thank you” before exiting the frame. Later, he posted a photo with the War Dogs, signaling a potential end to his NJPW chapter.

According to BodySlam.net, Finlay’s name has officially been discussed internally at WWE. While there’s no confirmation of a signed deal, multiple sources noted he’s on the company’s radar. Another source suggested WWE may already be laying subtle groundwork through his younger brother Uriah Connors in NXT.

This comes after Self Made Pro reported earlier this month that Finlay is also in deep talks with AEW about a potential dual contract—one that would let him primarily work in the U.S. while still making appearances for NJPW.

“Despite David Finlay wanting to go to WWE and actively trying to get signed there, there is now an extremely high chance that David Finlay ends up on some kind of dual deal between AEW and New Japan Pro Wrestling,” Self Made Pro reported.

Finlay’s contract with NJPW officially expired at the end of January, but he continued fulfilling obligations while quietly weighing his next move. With over a decade in NJPW, leadership of the War Dogs, and multiple title reigns under his belt, Finlay’s next step could shift the balance for either AEW or WWE.

Will David Finlay join his brother in WWE—or cement himself in AEW with a dual deal that bridges both worlds? Drop your thoughts and predictions in the comments.