Shinsuke Nakamura’s potential appearance at New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s Wrestle Kingdom 20 to face Hiroshi Tanahashi in his retirement match remains a tantalizing possibility but is widely regarded as unlikely backstage, according to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer. While Nakamura’s name has been mentioned internally by NJPW as a dream opponent for Tanahashi’s final bout, Meltzer and industry insiders view the matchup more as a “pipe dream” than a firm plan at this time.
Shinsuke Nakamura’s NJPW Return Rumors
Nakamura, who has been a prominent name in WWE since 2016, has not competed in NJPW for nearly a decade. However, the idea of him coming back for one final match to put over Hiroshi Tanahashi a legendary figure in Japanese wrestling has been a source of speculation among fans and insiders. Sources have confirmed that NJPW did discuss Nakamura’s name internally as a possible challenger for Tanahashi’s retirement match on January 4, 2026, at Wrestle Kingdom 20, but the consensus remains skeptical about the actual odds of this happening.
A WWE insider shared, “Nakamura returning to NJPW for Tanahashi’s retirement would be a dream scenario for fans worldwide, but there are significant contractual and promotional hurdles that make it tough to see this coming together realistically.”
Contractual and Logistical Challenges
One of the main obstacles in making the Nakamura vs. Tanahashi match a reality is Nakamura’s current WWE contract and the associated negotiations required for such a cross-promotional appearance. Reports indicate that while discussions have surfaced, Nakamura’s ongoing ambitions in WWE, including his pursuit of the World Heavyweight Championship, complicate any potential NJPW return.
During a recent interview with Tokyo Sports, Nakamura emphasized that his main goal remains winning a world title in WWE, something he sees as a significant milestone not yet achieved by any male Japanese wrestler in the United States. “I believe in it, so I keep going. That’s the World Heavyweight Championship, I just want to win that,” Nakamura said[1]. This continued focus on his WWE career suggests that he may not be ready to step away for a major NJPW match, despite the prestige it would carry.
Fan and Industry Reaction to Potential Matchup
Nakamura’s possible return to NJPW for this high-profile bout has attracted significant fan interest, with many seeing it as a dream match to close a remarkable chapter in Japanese wrestling history. Tanahashi, often called “The Ace” of NJPW, is retiring after an illustrious career, making the choice of his final opponent a matter of great importance and scrutiny.
Yet, the wrestling community is split on how likely it is for WWE to permit Nakamura’s participation in Wrestle Kingdom 20. While some insiders hope for the collaboration, others doubt the feasibility due to WWE’s business model and the competitive nature of promotions.
A senior NJPW official was quoted saying, “We love the idea of Nakamura vs. Tanahashi to honor both careers, but realistically it requires huge goodwill and agreements across companies that are tough to achieve.”
Nakamura’s Tribute to Tanahashi and Legacy Considerations
Despite the uncertainty around his participation in the retirement match, Nakamura has expressed respect and admiration for Tanahashi. At a WWE live event in Japan in October 2025, Nakamura gave a heartfelt shoutout to Tanahashi, acknowledging his legendary status and contribution to the pro wrestling world.
This gesture has further fueled rumors about a possible reunion in the ring, even if only for one night. Wrestling fans hope it would symbolize a full-circle moment Nakamura returning home to honor a peer that helped elevate the New Japan scene internationally.
What’s Next for Nakamura?
As WWE’s King of Strong Style, Nakamura’s immediate focus remains on his WWE trajectory. After recently finding renewed momentum by answering Sami Zayn’s United States Championship open challenge on SmackDown, Nakamura appears determined to reach WWE’s top tiers and secure a World Championship[1].
While the dream of a Wrestle Kingdom showdown with Tanahashi captivates many, current realities mean that a Nakamura NJPW return is not imminent. Still, the wrestling world continues to watch closely, as last-minute surprises in this industry are never out of the question.