New Japan Pro Wrestlings annual contract season is in full swing, but a new update suggests the situation around Clark Connorsand the rest of Bullet Club War Dogsmay be more fluid than fans initially believed.
It was reported earlier this week that while several NJPW contracts are indeed coming up, its not a clean, across-the-board expiration scenario. In fact, the company has dealt with similar situations before, including talent continuing to work without finalized deals for months at a time.
According to Fightful, NJPW expects to begin addressing a number of these contracts in the coming weeks, with negotiations typically ramping up during Wrestle Kingdom week.
That context matters, especially for Clark Connors. His NJPW deal is still expected to expire toward the end of January 2026, but his situation is now grouped with a broader internal push to retain key talent rather than a simple expiration-and-exit scenario.
Fightful Select reports that NJPW is actively hoping to keep David Finlay, Clark Connors, and Drilla Moloney, even as all three explore options with U.S.-based promotions.
Finlay, in particular, has been open about his desire to spend more time wrestling in the United Statesbut that doesnt necessarily mean a full departure from New Japan.
That last detail could be crucial. NJPW sources indicate the company is open to dual contracts, allowing talent to work internationally while still remaining tied to New Japan. Its a flexible approach that could keep the Bullet Club War Dogs intact while giving stars like Connors more exposure elsewhere.
As for Finlay, it was noted that he still has multiple NJPW dates scheduled after Wrestle Kingdom, signaling that any potential change wouldnt be immediate.
While Connors hasnt wrestled since November 2, this update makes it clear that NJPW isnt rushing himor anyone elseout the door. Instead, the company appears willing to negotiate, adapt, and keep its core players in the mix as long as possible.
With Wrestle Kingdom approaching and talks expected to intensify, the future of Clark Connors may come down to whether flexibilityor a fresh startwins out.
Do you think Clark Connors should stay with NJPW under a dual deal, or is now the right time for him to make a full move to the U.S.? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
