I believe the Bucks's contracts expire at the end of December (I think they are strictly ROH contracts). Kenny's contract is with New Japan and expires at the end of January (I believe its the day after Rumble because I joked with him that he should insist it expire the day OF the Rumble just to make the internet explode).
If Im New japan & ROH, they HAVE to be trying to lock those guys up ASAP. The longer they dont, the more indication it is that those guys are willing to listen. I'd be surprised if Kenny went though.
The opportunity for ROH/New Japan in running MSG is perception. Right now, a bunch of outlets who wanted WWE TV lost out....generally speaking, Networks felt it was WWE or a bust (no alternative, certainly not Impact). The increasing popularity of New Japan in the US can open doors. NJ has a TV deal on AXS, owned by Mark Cuban who has said he wants to see NJ continue to expand. That's a major advocate. Plus, ROH is owned by the very very huge TV company, Sinclair.
If a Network or streaming outlet targets wrestling, there really is no alternative to WWE but New Japan/ROH and its not just a minor league alternative anymore. There is huge potential growth. MSG raised their profile big time.
A National US deal with Kenny Omega as the face of the TV on a weekly basis has a lot of potential. Bucks, Okada, Cody...and it creates a scenario where guys have options. The Elite said they wanted to change the wrestling world. They might...