KUSHIDA clears up rumors.

It's no secret that KUSHIDA will be leaving NJPW at the end of the month in order to join WWE.

Earlier this month, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer reported that NJPW star KUSHIDA pitched the idea of turning heel and joining the Bullet Club in early 2018. Meltzer reported that KUSHIDA's pitch was turned down as NJPW booker Gedo wanted to keep him face as Team NJPW lacked a Junior Heavyweight Ace. Meltzer went on to report that NJPW's decision to not turn him heel and align him with Bullet Club was "one of the things that led to KUSHIDA leaving New Japan."

Appearing on a NJPW podcast, KUSHIDA denied Meltzer's report (translation via Chris Charlton).

"I think if you start shooting down rumours then it just never stops, but allow me this one: people actually said I wanted to join Bullet Club and couldn’t and that’s why I’m leaving. This isn’t even slightly true," said KUSHIDA. "I’ve performed on the greatest stage with amazing people, amazing opponents, supported by amazing staff. I have NO complaints about this company...I just feel I have to go. My size, being a junior, those didn’t factor once in the decision. The rumours are disappointing."

KUSHIDA's last scheduled match is against Hiroshi Tanahashi on Jan. 29.