EVIL Has a New Ring Name in NXT

The transition of international stars into the WWE system has reached a fever pitch this week as another major name from the Japanese circuit has officially been rebranded. Takaaki Watanabe, the man globally recognised for the last decade as the King of Darkness, EVIL, has confirmed his new identity. During the 5 May 2026 episode of NXT, it was revealed that the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion will now be competing under the name Naraku.

The name change marks a significant departure from his stylized NJPW persona while maintaining the dark, brooding aesthetic that made him a cornerstone of the Bullet Club and House of Torture. Naraku, a term which roughly translates to the lowest level of hell in Buddhist mythology, serves as a fitting evolution for a character who has built his legacy on the mantra that everything is evil. The choice of name appears designed to retain his menacing aura while providing WWE with a trademarked identity that is unique to their global platform.

Fans were given their first glimpse of this new direction during a pre-taped vignette that aired on Tuesday night. In the segment, Naraku reflected on his decorated history in Japan, including his history-making run as a triple champion, before making it clear that his ambitions remain unchanged in his new environment. The video concluded with his signature cackle, a familiar calling card that suggests the core of his villainous character remains intact despite the change in moniker.

The reveal follows Naraku’s unannounced debut on the 28 April episode, where he made an immediate impact by confronting the NXT Champion, Tony D’Angelo. By targeting the top of the card in his very first appearance, the promotion has positioned Naraku as a premier threat within the brand. Unlike many international arrivals who start at the bottom of the hierarchy, Naraku’s status as a former world heavyweight champion is being treated with the reverence it deserves, effectively fast-tracking him into the title picture.

With his identity now confirmed, the focus turns toward the physical debut of the Japanese standout. It has been announced that Naraku will make his official NXT in-ring debut on the 12 May episode from the Performance Centre. As he prepares to step into a WWE ring for the first time, the wrestling world is eager to see how his methodical, high-impact style will translate to the black-and-gold brand. For NXT, the addition of Naraku adds a level of veteran gravity and international prestige to a roster that is currently undergoing its most significant transformation in years.