According to the Wrestling Observer’s Figure Four Online, Ulka Sasaki, known for his work in Japan’s Pro Wrestling NOAH, recently posted a vlog in Japanese announcing that he is heading to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, as he prepares for a stint in WWE NXT. In the video, Sasaki also mentioned that he has received advice from his former NOAH opponent, Shinsuke Nakamura, on how to adjust to life in the U.S.
Sasaki, whose real first name is Yuta, chose the name Ulka from Sanskrit, which refers to Tengu, a flying monkey-like yokai from Shinto mythology. He is also a veteran of UFC, boasting an MMA record of 24 wins, 10 losses, and 2 draws. In NOAH, he frequently teams up with Kenoh. Sasaki made his official pro wrestling debut in 2024 and was ranked #270 on the Pro Wrestling Illustrated 500 that same year.
As is typical for WWE, Sasaki will likely receive a new ring name and will be expected to improve his English if he stays long-term. However, this could also be part of a regular talent exchange with Japan, similar to Yoshiki Inamura's previous stint in NXT before he returned to Japan.
