WWE News: Tajiri announces his departure from WWE

What’s the story?

In a series of Twitter posts, Yoshihiro Tajiri has officially announced his departure from WWE. He felt that his age would become a factor going forward. One also has to keep in mind that his knees have given him more trouble than anything else in the last decade, and the fact that he is 46 years old doesn’t help.

In case you didn’t know…

The Japanese professional wrestler has endured a long career in which he has worked for many wrestling promotions. Initially, he plied his trade in the independent circuit, working for the lesser known promotions until he made his debut in WWE in 2001. He worked with the company for the next four years, becoming a three-time Cruiserweight Champion. However, he left the company because he wanted to become a journalist and spend more time with his family in Japan.

Tajiri went on to make a few sporadic appearances in pay-per-views and some house shows. He also spent a few years in HUSTLE, All Japan Pro Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling and TNA among others. Last year, he made his return to the WWE when he was announced as a participant in WWE's Cruiserweight Classic tournament.

The heart of the matter

Tajiri injured his knee during an NXT Taping in January when he was fighting in a tag team match alongside Shinsuke Nakamura against Bobby Roode and Samoa Joe. After weeks of recovery, he was cleared to return and even featured in a 205 Live taping in February.

However, the Japanese star felt that at his age, his knees were not becoming any stronger and perhaps, it would be best to announce his departure. He revealed that he had signed a deal with the company in January but was forced to take time off.

Tajiri further disclosed that he did not have any regrets and even thanked Triple H and WWE for bestowing the opportunity upon him. At the end of his statement, he thanked the United States of America for the immense support.