It seems that The Bloodline is going to become BIGGER than already was.
In an update reported by Fightful Select, it has been confirmed that Hikuleo, a seasoned wrestler of New Japan Pro Wrestling, has officially concluded his tenure with the company. Hikuleo’s departure was signaled a month ago when he relinquished the NJPW Strong Tag Team Titles. Since then, he has remained absent from the wrestling scene, leading to speculation about his future.
Previous reports from Fightful and from Bodyslam.net‘s own Cassidy Haynes had indicated that Hikuleo’s contract with NJPW was set to expire in June, and it was widely anticipated that he would be leaving the company. Haynes reported that sources believed that he was going to follow the footsteps of his brothers, Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa, and join WWE.
“I can now confirm that is indeed the case, as Hikuleo’s final date with NJPW was June 9th, 2024 at Dominion. After speaking to sources within the company it also is believed that he is headed to WWE to presumably join his family in the current Bloodline story.”
– Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net
“Fightful Select has learned that as of earlier this year, Hikuleo’s NJPW contract ran until June.”
– Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select.
This week, WWE sources have confirmed that Hikuleo has indeed signed with the company. However, no specific start date has been disclosed to Sean Ross Sapp from Fightful at this time.
“WWE sources this week confirmed that to be the case and said that Hikuleo has joined the company, but no start date was clarified to Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp.”
– Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select.
Interestingly, in January 2023, Fightful had reported WWE’s interest in the sons of legendary wrestler Haku, including Hikuleo. This information was later confirmed by Hikuleo himself during an interview with Fightful. However, due to Vince McMahon’s return to the company and the impending merger, an informal hiring freeze was implemented, causing Hikuleo to re-sign with WWE for a one-year deal.
Hikuleo, also known as Leo Tonga, had a notable career in New Japan Pro Wrestling, starting in 2016. As the son of legendary wrestler Haku, he primarily competed in the tag team division, forming part of the successful stable “Bullet Club” team with his brothers, Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa. Hikuleo achieved multiple tag title reigns with his partner El Phantasmo (2 times as NJPW STRONG Tag Team Champions and 1 time IWGP Tag Team Champion), showcasing Hikuleo’s strength and athleticism in the ring, he also reached gold as a singles wrestler by winning the NJPW STRONG Openweight Title. He participated in NJPW’s prestigious tournaments such as the World Tag League and G1 Climax, further solidifying his presence as a formidable competitor. Hikuleo’s tenure in NJPW concluded after relinquishing the NJPW STRONG Tag Team Titles, marking the end of his time with the company. Throughout his NJPW career, Hikuleo made significant contributions to the tag team division, leaving a lasting impact on the promotion.
As Hikuleo transitions to WWE, fans eagerly await his debut and the potential opportunities that lie ahead for the talented wrestler. With his experience and family lineage, Hikuleo’s presence in WWE is sure to make an impact and add another dynamic element to the promotion’s roster.
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