NARAKU

Takaaki Watanabe is a Japanese professional wrestler currently performing on the WWE NXT brand under the ring name Naraku. Before his American debut, he spent over a decade as a dominant force in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) known as Evil. He is widely recognized for his technical precision and imposing physical presence that evolved from his amateur wrestling roots into one of the most feared personas in Japanese sports entertainment.

Watanabe's career trajectory shifted dramatically in 2026 when he left NJPW to join WWE. His arrival brought a unique blend of hard-hitting style and strategic storytelling to the NXT roster. Fans now know him by the moniker Naraku, a name reflecting his dark and intense character. His marriage to fellow superstar Iyo Sky has further cemented his status as a top-tier talent in the industry. [edit]

Takaaki Watanabe grew up in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, where he first discovered a passion for athletics. His early years were defined by rigorous training in amateur wrestling, which provided the foundational strength and discipline necessary for his future success. This background set him apart from many peers who entered the sport with less formal athletic preparation. He honed his skills in the local scene before making the leap to the professional circuit.

In 2011, Watanabe made his official debut in New Japan Pro-Wrestling. He quickly adopted the persona of Evil, a character designed to showcase his brute power and technical mastery. Between 2014 and 2015, he took a significant step by competing in the United States. During this excursion, he wrestled for Global Force Wrestling and Ring of Honor. These experiences exposed him to different wrestling styles and helped refine his approach to the business before he returned to Japan in late 2015 to continue his rise. [edit]

Watanabe's tenure in NJPW reached its peak in 2020 when he won the prestigious New Japan Cup. This victory marked a turning point in his career, leading to a dramatic betrayal of Tetsuya Naito and an alliance with Bullet Club. At Dominion in July 2020, he defeated Naito to capture both the IWGP Heavyweight and Intercontinental Championships. For a brief period from July to August 2020, he held all three major titles simultaneously: the IWGP Heavyweight, Intercontinental, and IWGP Tag Team Championships. This triple crown feat remains unique in NJPW history.

Before his departure in January 2026, Watanabe formed a legendary tag team with Sanada. Together they captured the IWGP Tag Team Championship twice and won the World Tag League on two separate occasions. Their partnership also resulted in six victories in the NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship. In April 2026, Watanabe officially joined WWE on the NXT brand. He challenged Tony D'Angelo for the NXT Championship at the Great American Bash in June 2026. Despite not winning the title, his presence immediately elevated the program. He later intervened in the Vanity Project storyline and secured a high-profile victory over Shiloh Hill in August 2026. [edit]

Watanabe is portrayed as a calculating and intimidating figure within the wrestling world. His style combines technical prowess with raw power, earning him respect from peers and fans alike. Media coverage often highlights his intensity and dedication to the craft, reinforcing his image as a serious athlete. The shift to the name Naraku allowed him to lean even deeper into a villainous role, captivating audiences with his ruthless in-ring tactics. He is seen as a formidable opponent who commands respect through sheer dominance. [edit]

iFANN has not yet collected fame data for this person. While not featured in the September 2026 September 2026 iFAMOUS Rankings flagship list, his recent move to WWE has generated significant buzz among wrestling enthusiasts. The fanbase surrounding Watanabe does not have a formal name but consists of dedicated followers from both NJPW and WWE communities. Fans appreciate his unique storytelling abilities and often discuss his matches on social media platforms. His marriage to Iyo Sky has sparked additional interest, with supporters celebrating their relationship as a highlight of the current wrestling landscape. [edit]

The name Naraku translates to "underworld" or "hell" in Japanese, perfectly capturing the dark and menacing aura Watanabe projects in the ring. His transition from the name Evil to Naraku symbolizes a new chapter in his career as he adapted his established reputation for a global audience. The collaboration between Watanabe and Sanada during his NJPW days is often cited by fans as one of the most successful tag teams in the organization's history. Watanabe's amateur wrestling background gives him a distinct advantage in grappling exchanges, allowing him to execute complex holds with ease. His signature moves are known for their brutal efficiency rather than flashy acrobatics. [edit]

Watanabe keeps his family life relatively private compared to his public persona. On May 17, 2026, he married Iyo Sky, a prominent figure in WWE and former NXT Women's Champion. The union of two top-tier wrestlers created a real-life "power couple" dynamic that fans have embraced. There is no public information regarding children from this marriage or any previous relationships, suggesting the couple may be focusing on their careers. Watanabe values his privacy and rarely shares details about his personal life outside of these major milestones. [edit]

Sanada, Tetsuya Naito, Iyo Sky, Bullet Club, Tony D'Angelo, Shiloh Hill. [edit]

Takaaki Watanabe's personal life remained largely out of the spotlight until his high-profile marriage in 2026. There is no widely reported dating history prior to his union with Iyo Sky. On May 17, 2026, it was announced that he married Iyo Sky, a celebrated wrestler in WWE. The couple's relationship began professionally, blending their respective legacies in the wrestling world. As of 2026, Watanabe is married to Iyo Sky. The wedding was a significant event for fans, marking the union of two top talents. No children have been publicly confirmed from this marriage. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Takaaki Watanabe's net worth at approximately $1.5 million. This figure reflects his earnings from his long tenure in NJPW and his recent signing with WWE. His income sources include wrestling salaries, appearance fees, and potential endorsement deals associated with his high profile. As of 2026, his financial standing continues to grow as he establishes himself in the American market. The transition from a Japanese star to a global WWE performer has opened new revenue streams for him. [edit]

Watanabe has won numerous championships throughout his career, including the IWGP Tag Team Championship twice and the New Japan Cup in 2020. He is a six-time NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champion and holds the distinction of being the only wrestler to hold three major NJPW titles simultaneously. His accolades reflect his status as one of the most decorated athletes in Japanese wrestling history. [edit]