Andrade Returns to NJPW as La Sombra – Andrade is officially heading back to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, marking a major moment in his post-WWE career. The former WWE United States Champion was revealed as the newest member of United Empire during the Road to Tokyo Dome event on December 22, confirming his involvement in one of the marquee matches scheduled for Wrestle Kingdom 20.

The announcement came via a video message that aired during the show, with Andrade revealing he will compete in a massive 10-man tag team match at Wrestle Kingdom on January 4, 2026. He will align himself with United Empire against a stacked opposing team consisting of David Finlay, Shingo Takagi, Gabe Kidd, Hiromu Takahashi, and Drilla Moloney. The reveal filled one of two remaining open spots on the United Empire side, which already included Callum Newman, Great-O-Khan, and the recently returned HENARE.

In a notable detail, Andrade confirmed that he will be using his former ring name, La Sombra, for his New Japan return. The name carries significant history, as it was the identity he used during his original run in Japan prior to signing with WWE. This appearance marks Andrade’s first match in NJPW since 2015, when he was competing under the CMLL banner before departing for the United States.

The return comes after a turbulent stretch for Andrade throughout 2025. He officially wrapped up his latest WWE run in the fall and made a lone appearance for AEW at their anniversary show shortly afterward. However, Andrade revealed earlier this month that WWE enforced a 12-month non-compete clause, preventing him from returning to AEW television on a regular basis. That restriction appears to have opened the door for his return to Japan instead.

Wrestle Kingdom 20 will take place at the Tokyo Dome and is shaping up to be one of the most significant events in New Japan history. In addition to the United Empire clash, the card will feature Hiroshi Tanahashi competing in his retirement match against AEW’s Kazuchika Okada. The event will also see Konosuke Takeshita defend the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship against Yota Tsuji in a Winner Takes All match that also includes the IWGP Global Heavyweight Title.

Andrade Returns to NJPW as La Sombra

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