The stunning exodus from New Japan continues…word just broke within the past hour that Hiromu Takahashi will be the latest to unexpectedly depart the promotion. No specific reason given beyond “After careful consideration and discussions with NJPW management, Hiromu Takahashi, who has been a long standing member of the NJPW roster, has decided to leave the promotion”. His final event will be THE NEW BEGINNING on 2/11. No word yet on future plans although he did make several appearances in Pro Wrestling NOAH the last few months and obviously this could open the door to a now-Los Tranquilos De Japon reunion with Tetsuya Naito & BUSHI. We shall see but this is another huge blow to the early days of the new Hiroshi Tanahashi regime.
More as it becomes available.
UPDATE: Some more details are emerging from various social media outlets, some offering rumors & speculation as to why he’s leaving: First, the seemingly official reason-contract expiring and not being renewed. Takahashi reportedly says he is leaving on good terms and it’s not due to dissatisfaction with the promotion and even calls it a “super positive departure”. Also claims it has nothing to do with the departures of Tetsuya Naito & EVIL. The emergence of “a new dream” was a deciding factor, and speculation that, given his age (36) with 15 years in the promotion and also being active in TV and other media that it was time to make a move.
A translation of the below post is the primary source for a lot of this, however I do note this account does not appear to be affiliated with New Japan despite the handle suggesting it, so treat it as unofficial:
Additionally, Takahashi will remain part of/involved with independent promotion SUGAMO Pro Wrestling, which is a comedy-themed promotion based in Tokyo. The promotion confirmed this in their own statement. I was not aware of this until seeing a Twitter post just now.