🔥 Tommaso Ciampa Quietly Steps Away From WWE—Backstage Absence, NJPW Interest & What’s Next for #DIY
One of WWE’s most intense competitors may already be gone—and the details make this exit even more intriguing. Tommaso Ciampa’s WWE chapter appears to be nearing its final page, and unlike most exits, this one is happening with almost no noise from the company itself.
As previously reported, the former NXT Champion has informed WWE that he plans to leave once his current contract expires — a date believed to be coming up very soon. Now, new behind-the-scenes details suggest Ciampa’s departure is already well underway.
🚪 Ciampa Already Off WWE’s Radar?
According to Fightful Select, Ciampa has not been backstage at WWE events recently and is not scheduled for any upcoming shows. That’s a major signal, especially for a talent who was a regular presence on SmackDown just months ago.
In WWE terms, this usually means one thing: the company is already moving forward without him.
There’s been no official farewell angle, no injury storyline, and no public acknowledgment from WWE — making this a surprisingly quiet exit for someone once viewed as a cornerstone performer.
🌏 Why NJPW & The Indies Are in Play

Reports from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter indicate Ciampa is looking outside the WWE bubble, with strong interest in:
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
- Select independent bookings
Notably, AEW is not expected to be part of Ciampa’s immediate plans. That alone makes this story stand out, as most high-profile WWE exits tend to fuel instant AEW speculation.
Instead, Ciampa appears focused on in-ring prestige, fresh matchups, and a return to a more wrestling-first environment — something that made him a cult favorite during his NXT peak.
🤝 What About Johnny Gargano & #DIY?
While Ciampa has been absent, his longtime tag team partner Johnny Gargano continues to appear on WWE television.
Gargano competed on last Friday’s episode of SmackDown, where he suffered a singles loss to Nathan Frazer — a match that felt noticeably disconnected from any ongoing #DIY storyline.
During their most recent SmackDown run, #DIY captured the WWE Tag Team Championships twice, proving they could still deliver at the highest level. But with Ciampa stepping away, the team’s future now looks uncertain at best.
👀 What Happens Next?
As of now:
- Ciampa is off WWE schedules
- His contract is nearing expiration
- WWE has made no on-screen reference to his absence
All signs point to a clean, quiet break — and potentially the start of a brand-new global run for one of wrestling’s most intense performers.
Whether Ciampa resurfaces in NJPW, shocks fans on the indie scene, or takes time away entirely, one thing is clear:
The Blackheart’s WWE era is ending — and the wrestling world is watching closely for his next move. 🖤🔥
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