Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer has recently provided an update on the buzz surrounding WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura’s possible return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) for Wrestle Kingdom 20. Fans and insiders alike have been speculating whether Nakamura will come back to face longtime rival Hiroshi Tanahashi in what would be Tanahashi’s final match before retirement.
The Context: Tanahashi’s Retirement and Nakamura’s NJPW Legacy
Hiroshi Tanahashi, one of NJPW’s most iconic figures, is set to retire at Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026. The promotion has yet to officially announce his final opponent, but a match against Shinsuke Nakamura has been a topic of wide discussion. Nakamura himself has a rich history with NJPW, where he was a multi-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion and a leading star before departing for WWE in early 2016[1].
Nakamura and Tanahashi share a longstanding rivalry and respect built through numerous classic encounters. Their potential Wrestle Kingdom reunion would evoke nostalgia for NJPW loyalists and attract significant interest globally.
Meltzer’s Insight: How Likely Is Nakamura’s NJPW Appearance?
Despite the excitement, Dave Meltzer reports that Nakamura’s involvement in NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 is considered “a pipe dream” by insiders. According to Meltzer and other reports, logistical challenges and contract complexities with WWE make the prospect highly unlikely[3][2].
Sources close to the situation claim WWE has been reluctant to allow Nakamura to appear on a competitor’s major show, which would necessitate delicate negotiations:
“According to a WWE insider, the company isn’t inclined to clear Nakamura for NJPW’s biggest event, given the potential brand conflicts and contractual restrictions,” a source revealed.
This stance aligns with WWE’s typical approach of tightly managing their talent’s external appearances to protect their own programming and storylines.
Why Is Nakamura So Special for Tanahashi’s Farewell?
Nakamura is more than just a former NJPW star; he symbolizes an era that defined New Japan’s modern resurgence. Their rivalry headlined major cards, including Wrestle Kingdom events and G1 Climax tournaments[1]. A final showdown between these two would be a fitting capstone to Tanahashi’s illustrious career.
Moreover, Nakamura publicly acknowledged Tanahashi’s retirement at a recent WWE live event in Japan, further fueling speculation about a possible cross-promotional match[2]. This gesture was warmly received by fans but has not significantly altered the backstage realities.
The NJPW Perspective: Considering Alternatives
NJPW insiders confirm that while Nakamura was seriously considered internally for Tanahashi’s retirement match, the company is actively exploring other options in case Nakamura’s WWE commitments prevent a return[2]. Tanahashi’s final opponent could very well be one of NJPW’s homegrown stars or another top international wrestler.
One NJPW executive stated:
“We want Tanahashi’s final match to be memorable, but we’re realistic about who we can work with. Nakamura would be ideal, but we’ve got contingency plans.”
This pragmatic approach reflects the complexity of cross-promotional collaborations and the delicate balance between honoring tradition and navigating modern wrestling contracts.
What Does This Mean for Fans and the Wrestling World?
While the dream of seeing Nakamura back in a New Japan ring versus Tanahashi remains enticing, Meltzer’s update suggests fans should temper expectations. Without WWE’s blessing, such a match faces many barriers[3].
Still, the wrestling community is hopeful that the right circumstances might emerge, and even a cameo or limited involvement by Nakamura could help elevate the emotional stakes at Wrestle Kingdom 20.
In the meantime, fans can anticipate NJPW delivering a high-quality card that respects Tanahashi’s legacy with compelling alternatives.
Conclusion: A Potential Dream Match That Faces Realities
Though the prospect of Shinsuke Nakamura returning to NJPW for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement match remains a long shot, the discussion itself highlights Nakamura’s enduring significance in the wrestling world. As Meltzer’s update clarifies, tough contractual and promotional issues stand in the way, but the wrestling universe continues to watch with anticipation.
Whether Nakamura can make this special appearance or not, Wrestle Kingdom 20 promises to be a historic event honoring one of pro-wrestling’s greatest legends.