WWE Raw Star Teases Heel Turn

Shinsuke Nakamura looks to be turning heel in the near future.

As seen on the July 31st episode of WWE Raw, Nakamura was in action in a match against a recently returning Tommaso Ciampa. The King of Strong Style won the match by rolling up Ciampa and using the tights for extra leverage.

The actions by the former Intercontinental Champion further tease a change in character, as Nakamura has shown more aggressive tendencies in recent weeks.

On the July 19th episode Raw, Ciampa would interfere in Nakamura’s match against Bronson Reed, with Reed being the target of the attacks. Following the announcement that Reed had won the match via disqualification, a frustrated Nakamura kicked Ciampa in the face. The former NXT Champion has attempted to reconcile with Nakamura, but this was mostly ignored.

Following on from the controversial victory, both Superstars will once again meet face-to-face at SummerSlam, as both Ciampa and Nakamura are confirmed entrants in the SummerSlam Battle Royale. Other confirmed participants for the match are Sheamus, LA Knight, Otis and Chad Gable.

When Did Shinsuke Nakamura Debut In WWE?

Following an exit from New Japan Pro Wrestling, Nakamura would sign with WWE in 2016, making his debut in the critically acclaimed match against Sami Zayn at NXT TakeOver: Dallas. Following an approximate 1 year run in NXT, which included 2 reigns with the NXT Championship, Nakamura was called up to the main roster on the SmackDown after WrestleMania 33.

Since moving to the main roster, Nakamura won the 2018 Royal Rumble and has had reigns with the Intercontinental, United States and Tag Team Championships.

In a rare move by WWE, Nakamura was allowed to wrestle for another promotion in January 2023. As part of The Great Muta’s retirement tour, the WWE Hall of Famer faced The King of Strong Style at the Noah event The New Year.