WWE could return to Japan in 2027, with TKO Group Holdings President Mark Shapiro saying discussions are underway to bring the company back to Tokyo.
Speaking during TKO’s third-quarter 2026 earnings call, Mark Shapiro confirmed that WWE President Nick Khan has been in talks about staging an event in the Japanese capital next year. The potential return was mentioned as Shapiro discussed TKO’s international expansion plans, including efforts to strengthen WWE and UFC’s presence in overseas markets.
Shapiro initially addressed UFC’s ongoing relationship with Abu Dhabi, saying the organisation was engaged in positive discussions about its existing agreement with the region. He then turned his attention to WWE, expressing optimism about the possibility of the company returning to Tokyo.
“I’m also pretty bullish about some conversations that Nick Khan is having about bringing WWE to Tokyo next year,” Shapiro said.
Although Shapiro’s comments suggest that the wrestling promotion is actively exploring the possibility, no agreement or event has been officially announced. The TKO executive did not provide a potential date, venue or details about the type of show the company could stage in Japan.
It therefore remains unclear whether the proposed event would be a premium live event, a televised broadcast or part of the company’s regular international touring schedule.
WWE Continues To Expand Its Presence In Japan
The discussions come amid WWE’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Japanese market. WWE programming began streaming on Netflix in Japan in October 2026, expanding the company’s distribution through the platform.
The company also visited Japan that same month, marking its most recent appearances in the country. A potential return in 2027 would continue the company’s relationship with Japanese audiences while supporting TKO’s broader strategy of exploring international markets.
World Wrestling Entertainment has increasingly looked beyond the United States when staging major events, and international expansion has become an important part of the company’s business strategy. Shapiro’s comments suggest Tokyo remains a market of interest as the promotion plans next year’s schedule.
However, despite his confidence in the discussions involving Khan, there is currently no confirmation that an event has been agreed upon. Further details on WWE’s potential return to Japan are expected if negotiations progress and the company moves toward an official announcement.
