[Report] Sasha Banks Set To Appear At NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17

A recent story claims that Sasha Banks’ upcoming appearance has been confirmed after months of discussion about if and when she could return to the wrestling industry. Banks’ career route appears to be travelling across the Pacific to the Tokyo Dome for New Japan Pro Wrestling rather than making a comeback to WWE.

Reports Claim Sasha Banks Is Set For Wrestle Kingdom 17

Sasha Banks is anticipated to make some sort of cameo at New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual Wrestle Kingdom event, according to Mike Johnson of PWInsider, who cited’several people close to the matter’. Since January 4th has long been the business tradition as the biggest show of the year, an appearance by Banks would probably be on that date. Wrestle Kingdom 17 is split across two dates in January this year.
It is currently uncertain what kind of presence Banks will make. There have been a number of significant revelations for NJPW through video packages, most notably with the announcement that Will Ospreay will face Kenny Omega for the IWGP United States Championship at the event, but there is nothing preventing Banks from making an appearance person should this be true.

What Would Sasha Banks Do In New Japan?

The inaugural defence of the recently established IWGP Women’s Championship will take place at Wrestle Kingdom 17. At a crossover event between New Japan Pro Wrestling and their sister joshi company Stardom, KAIRI, formerly known as Kairi Sane in the WWE, won the first championship after a brief competition. KAIRI is scheduled to defend the title against Tam Nakano, but after teasing a fight with Banks earlier this year on social media, possibly Banks will be KAIRI’s next opponent.

The news coincides with more Sasha Banks-related developments. Recent trademark filings indicated that Banks would have a new ring name and extra branding, indicating that an appearance outside of WWE was planned. Fans won’t have to wait long to find out whether the rumours are accurate because Wrestle Kingdom’s opening night is less than a month away. The working links between Banks and AEW, which are already being suggested with Saraya’s forthcoming mystery partner in January, might result in an appearance in AEW should Banks stake a claim for the IWGP Women’s Championship in addition to battling for NJPW and Stardom.