Welcome to the Grapevine! This section of Smark Henry is where we round up all the important founded and unfounded rumors floating around the pro wrestling scene that you may have missed over the past few days. Remember to take everything with a grain of salt!
Is Jay White going to WWE?
WWE is apparently "making a strong play" for former IWGP Heavyweight Champion Jay White after his contract with NJPW expires at the end of January. There are reportedly several people in WWE going to bat for White, supporting him from within and going out of their way to speak highly of him. He is apparently 50/50 about staying with NJPW, while AEW is also likely in the market for White considering the EVPs' knowledge of his work in Japan. White's contract expiring at the end of January also officially rules him out for this year's Royal Rumble. (Source: @Wrestlevotes, Wrestling Observer Radio, Super J-Cast)
We say: American wrestling is honestly the way to go for Jay White, unless NJPW has plans of turning him face and unleashing his full potential. We don't think he's quite the global star that NJPW fans view him to be just yet, but honestly, the next few years will be big for him no matter where he goes—save for maybe the WWE main roster, where there's a big chance he'll be misused. He's got time.
Dalton Castle now a free agent
Former ROH World Champion Dalton Castle is now a free agent, with his ROH contract expiring on January 10. He turned down a new, better deal from the company to see the potential options available to him. There were previously rumors about WWE being interested in signing him back in 2018, but he remained with ROH. (Source: Wrestling Inc)
We say: Might not be the best time as his name is no longer as buzzworthy as it was a few years ago, but he would be a welcome addition to any major-league roster (especially NXT).
Let us know what you think of today's news in the comments!
Photo from NJPW
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