Over the past few years, Walker Stewart has established himself as the English voice of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s commentary team, while expanding his duties to World Wonder Ring Stardom and most recently AEW. So when Stewart posted a cryptic message to X earlier Monday stating that he had signed, some wondered if this was a sign that Stewart was making the full-time move to AEW. As it turns out, it was Stewart who hinted that he had signed a new deal with New Japan, which he confirmed shortly after his initial hint.
In a lengthy statement, Stewart expressed pride in watching New Japan improve since he first joined the promotion in 2023and “was very fortunate to continue my journey flying the lion flag.” He also revealed that this new contract will not keep him strictly in the New Japan booth, as he will also continue his Stardom duties, work for certain indie promotions, and work “limited” dates with AEW, including in 2026 and even some in 2027.
I am happy to announce that I have renewed my contract with NJPW. I have been very fortunate to see NJPW continue to grow and improve year after year since my debut with the company in 2023, and I am very fortunate to continue my journey rocking the lion sign…
— Walker Stewart (@VelvetVoiceWS) September 14, 2026
Stewart first called matches for AEW back in August 2025. when he was on the commentary team for AEWxNJPW Forbidden Door in London; he performed similar duties During the 2026 incarnation of the Forbidden Door in San Jose, California. His first non-Forbidden Door AEW appearance was just two weeks ago, however, when he joined Tony Schiavone and Excalibur in the AEW Collision booth. Stewart is set to return to New Japan’s booth on September 27th, where he will headline New Japan’s Destruction in Kobe event.