Note on EVIL’s WWE Status Internally Amid Reported Signing

As previously reported, former IWGP Heavyweight Champion EVIL is believed to have signed a contract with WWE.

Though WWE has yet to officially acknowledge his acquisition, PWInsider reported last week that several sources in Japan have confirmed that the 39-year-old has indeed inked a deal with the North American promotion. The report also noted that he is set to work under a new ring name in WWE.

Earlier today, PWInsider reported that EVIL has yet to be officially assigned to a WWE brand. The report noted that he is currently internally listed on the “Misc.” roster. Notably, this is where legends and injured wrestlers are placed.

EVIL wrapped his stint with New Japan Pro-Wrestling in January 2026. His last match took place at the Road to the New Beginning on January 20. Following his departure, reports have claimed that he wants to start his WWE career in NXT, as it will help him nail down his character, apart from aiding him in adapting to the company’s style. It will be interesting to see if that happens.

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