The wrestling world is buzzing with hypothesis about who could have the dignity of dealing with “The Ace” in his career-defining finale. With Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement ceremony set for NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026, on the legendary Tokyo Dome, one identify has emerged as probably the most intriguing chance: present WWE Celebrity Shinsuke Nakamura.
Nakamura Sends Clear Message Throughout WWE’s Japan Tour
The “King of Sturdy Fashion” actually made his intentions recognized throughout WWE’s current Japanese tour. Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer highlighted how Nakamura intentionally included Tanahashi’s signature mannerisms all through his matches, creating unmistakable callbacks to their shared NJPW historical past.
Probably the most telling second got here throughout Nakamura’s post-match promo, the place he instantly acknowledged Tanahashi. This wasn’t delicate wrestling storytelling – it was a daring assertion that caught the eye of followers and trade insiders alike.
For longtime puroresu followers, a Nakamura-Tanahashi farewell match would characterize good storytelling. Each males helped outline NJPW’s trendy period earlier than Nakamura departed for WWE in 2016.
The Contract Clause That Makes It Doable
In keeping with Meltzer’s newest Wrestling Observer Publication report, Nakamura’s WWE contract features a particular provision permitting him to work dates in Japan. This clause might show essential for making the dream match a actuality.
Whereas WWE approval would nonetheless be required for any NJPW reserving, that’s not essentially the largest impediment. Meltzer suggests the contractual framework exists to make it occur from WWE’s perspective.
The true problems lie within the complicated internet of wrestling politics that presently defines the connection between main promotions.
AEW Partnership Creates Main Roadblock
NJPW’s present working relationship with All Elite Wrestling presents probably the most vital problem to reserving a WWE performer. As wrestling’s second-largest American promotion, AEW has developed robust ties with New Japan over current years.
The partnership has already produced main storylines and cross-promotional alternatives. Most notably, AEW’s Konosuke Takeshita presently holds the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, making him more likely to defend the title at Wrestle Kingdom 20.
Meltzer believes NJPW can be reluctant to characteristic a WWE star on the identical card as AEW expertise, particularly given the aggressive tensions between WWE and Tony Khan’s promotion.
May Tanahashi’s Legacy Override Politics?
Regardless of these problems, Meltzer suggests there is likely to be room for exception. Tanahashi’s significance to NJPW and Japanese wrestling tradition might present sufficient justification to navigate the political minefield.
The Wrestling Observer Publication signifies that whereas AEW wouldn’t be thankful for WWE involvement in a NJPW present, Tanahashi’s retirement significance may warrant particular consideration.
This isn’t nearly one wrestler’s farewell – it’s about honoring a person who carried NJPW by way of a few of its most difficult durations. Tanahashi’s decade-plus as “The Ace” earned him legendary standing that transcends typical promotional boundaries.
The emotional weight of the second might show extra highly effective than normal enterprise relationships, particularly if followers exhibit overwhelming assist for the matchup.
Timeline for the Large Reveal
Wrestling followers gained’t have to attend for much longer for readability on Tanahashi’s closing opponent. Meltzer stories that the announcement ought to come at NJPW’s “Remaining Homecoming” occasion in Tanahashi’s hometown of Gifu on November 2, or shortly thereafter.
This timeline is sensible from a promotional standpoint, giving NJPW roughly two months to construct anticipation for Wrestle Kingdom 20. The Gifu occasion would supply the right emotional setting for such a big announcement.
If Nakamura isn’t the chosen opponent, the hometown reveal would nonetheless carry large significance as followers study who will share the ring with their hero one closing time.
The Stakes Couldn’t Be Larger
As Tanahashi’s retirement tour continues its emotional journey towards the Tokyo Dome, each match carries added weight. However his closing opponent choice will outline how certainly one of wrestling’s best careers concludes.
Whether or not it’s Nakamura or one other legend, the selection might want to honor each Tanahashi’s unimaginable legacy and the passionate followers who supported him all through his exceptional journey. Will the wrestling politics of 2025 permit for the dream match followers are hoping for, or will NJPW select a special path for “The Ace’s” closing bow?
