Last week, reports of negotiations between WWE and NJPW regarding a talent-sharing deal drew much attention. Further details about what exactly has been discussed and what is still being discussed have since been revealed.
According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, a potential deal between the two companies would involve the NXT brand quite a bit.
“The deal talked about would have been more likely be NXT focused and would have things beneficial for both sides and it’s not like WWE is going to buy New Japan or bring in Kazuchika Okada to job for Randy Orton or all the crazy speculation from the past week,” wrote Dave Meltzer.
In terms of whether or not this deal is going to happen, Meltzer speculated that Tony Khan would not have given the speech that he did at Double or Nothing if the WWE/NJPW deal was likely to go through.
“Logic would indicate Tony Khan would not have cut that video thinking this deal is going to happen any time soon so it’s more likely than not this deal isn’t happening,” Meltzer wrote.
It was also noted that while Nick Khan is a key person in these negotiations, this was not his idea. Daniel Bryan has actually stated in interviews that it was his or at least he was a driving force behind it. Khan has reportedly recommended to Vince McMahon that he pursue a deal with NJPW, however.
What does this have to do with Daniel Bryan?
Daniel Bryan is currently a free agent. He is not signed to WWE. Early discussions between WWE and NJPW are said to have entered around Bryan. This is no longer the case, however.
“Also, while Bryan Danielson was absolutely part of the early talks, that hasn’t been the case of late as far as the major aspect, and one source said he hasn’t been a part of any recent talks,” Meltzer continued.
