Takaaki Watanabe

Takaaki Watanabe is a Japanese professional wrestler signed to WWE, where he performs on the NXT brand under the ring name Naraku. He is best known for his tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) under the ring name EVIL, where he debuted as a Young Lion in 2011 and later became the leader of House of Torture. During his NJPW run, he captured the IWGP Heavyweight and Intercontinental Championships, won the New Japan Cup in 2020, and claimed back-to-back World Tag League victories in 2017 and 2018 with SANADA before leaving the promotion in January 2026.

Watanabe debuted in WWE on the April 28, 2026 episode of NXT by confronting NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo before officially adopting the name Naraku. He later made his in-ring debut on May 12, defeating Lince Dorado.

Takaaki Watanabe is known for work in acting across film and television. New Release currently presents 28 verified screen credits connected to this profile.

Selected work includes NJPW World Tag League 2025 - Day 17 (Final) (2025), NJPW Dominion 6.9 In Osaka-Jo Hall ~ Best of the Super Junior 31 Final ~ 2024 (2024), NJPW Dominion 6.9 in Osaka-jo Hall 2019 (2019), New Japan Pro Wrestling (1972), WWE NXT (2010), WWE Main Event (2012), World Wonder Ring Stardom (2011), Ring of Honor Wrestling (2009). The recorded credits span 1972 to 2026, including 22 movies and 6 TV shows.

The filmography below lists available titles, release years and known roles. This profile is updated as additional verified information becomes available.