Sasha Banks NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17 appearance not booked through WWE

Sasha Banks is heading to the Tokyo Dome.

Dave Meltzer confirmed on Saturday a report from Mike Johnson of PWInsider that Banks would be appearing at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 17 event on January 4. Additionally, he said that while WWE could still sign Banks, New Japan believes she will be a free and clear to appear on the show by January 4.

“This deal is not through WWE, so if the appearance isn't blocked legally by WWE, it means she will be a free agent by that date,” Meltzer wrote. “WWE can still sign her but NJPW believes she is free and clear by 1/4.”

Banks has not been seen on WWE television since she and Naomi walked out of a Raw event back in May due to creative differences. WWE responded by stripping Banks and Naomi of the Women's Tag Team championships, and their status with WWE remains unclear. Both Banks and Naomi are still listed on the active roster on WWE.com.

NJPW crowned their first IWGP Women’s Champion last month, when KAIRI defeated Mayu Iwatani to become the first champion at NJPW x Stardom Historic X-Over.