A highly anticipated dream match between Shinsuke Nakamura and Hiroshi Tanahashi for the January 4, 2026, Tokyo Dome show, Wrestle Kingdom 20, is stirring excitement in the pro wrestling world—yet political hurdles may prevent this blockbuster encounter from coming to fruition.
The Dream Match Generates Massive Buzz
Fans and insiders alike have speculated about a one-on-one showdown between Nakamura and Tanahashi at Tanahashi’s retirement show inside the Tokyo Dome. The thought of these two Japanese icons clashing in a final, high-profile match after years of legendary encounters in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) has sparked widespread anticipation. Nakamura’s recent return to WWE television and his subtle nod to Tanahashi during a WWE Japan event—using Tanahashi’s trademark “Yaaao!” catchphrase—further fueled rumors[3][6][7].
Tanahashi’s retirement match on January 4, 2026, is confirmed to be a singles contest, but his opponent remains unannounced. With their history as allies and rivals, fans naturally point to Nakamura as the perfect adversary to close Tanahashi’s in-ring career[4].
Political Dynamics Complicate the Matchup
Despite strong fan interest and NJPW support for Nakamura vs Tanahashi, backstage sources reveal complex political obstacles that threaten to derail the bout. The main issue lies in NJPW’s existing partnerships with promotions that are competitors to WWE—namely, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and Mexico’s Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL). These companies are seen as direct rivals to WWE and its ally AAA, complicating any potential cross-promotional cooperation[4].
According to Fightful Select and industry insiders, Nakamura’s WWE return appears largely unrelated to NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom plans. While NJPW officials reportedly favor the Nakamura matchup, the reality of WWE-Warner Bros. Discovery’s stance on cross-promotion and NJPW’s commitments to AEW-CMLL relationships make negotiations very difficult. This leaves Nakamura’s involvement uncertain despite the enthusiasm from both fanbases and some NJPW representatives[4].
WWE and NJPW: A Complicated History
WWE and NJPW have limited history of cooperation, with isolated exceptions such as Karl Anderson’s participation in Wrestle Kingdom 17 in 2023. However, WWE maintaining control over Nakamura’s booking rights adds a significant hurdle to any agreement for a Wrestle Kingdom appearance. Cooperation between top promotions in pro wrestling tends to be rare and delicate, especially when factions and competitors have clear rivalries off-screen[4].
A WWE insider shared, “There’s definitely interest in the idea from multiple sides, but the politics and contractual realities around these companies mean things aren’t lined up yet. A match like Nakamura vs Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom would require more than just willingness—it would need unprecedented negotiation and trust between top brass.” This quote highlights how behind-the-scenes business complexities overshadow even the best dream matches[4].
Nakamura’s Recent WWE Japan Appearance
Nakamura’s enthusiastic appearance in WWE’s Japan live events in October 2025 further raised hopes for a reunion with Tanahashi. After teaming with Jey Uso to defeat Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, Nakamura acknowledged WWE’s return to Japan and electrified the crowd by ending his promo with “Yaaao!”—Tanahashi’s famous catchphrase[3][7].
Tanahashi responded lightheartedly on social media, acknowledging he had heard Nakamura’s message, sparking speculation about the wrestlers’ potential confrontation at Wrestle Kingdom 20. Fans remember Nakamura and Tanahashi as pillars through NJPW’s difficult times in the 2000s and as key figures during the promotion’s resurgence in the 2010s. Yet, they have not faced each other in singles competition since 2015[3][7].
What’s Next for Wrestle Kingdom 20?
Tanahashi’s retirement at Wrestle Kingdom 20 is a landmark moment in NJPW history and arguably in Japanese wrestling as a whole. The card is poised to be stacked with major matches reflecting the shifting wrestling landscape in 2026. While many hope Nakamura will step into the ring for Tanahashi’s final match, politics could force NJPW to explore alternatives[5].
In the meantime, WWE’s ongoing Japan tour and its roster of stars, including Nakamura’s active presence, not only promote WWE brand growth in Japan but also add layers to international pro wrestling storylines and rivalries[2].
Final Thoughts
The Nakamura vs Tanahashi match remains an exhilarating “what if” scenario with passionate support from fans and parts of NJPW’s management but clouded by the realities of modern wrestling’s complex corporate alliances. As one backstage source revealed, the chances of this legendary bout depend as much on negotiations between wrestling companies as on the wrestlers’ willingness.
“Fans want this. The stars want this. But there’s more to pro wrestling today than just the in-ring action,” a WWE insider noted. “Sometimes, the business side can be the biggest obstacle to the matches we all dream about.” Whether the politics will be overcome to make Nakamura vs Tanahashi happen at the Tokyo Dome remains one of 2026’s most compelling storylines.
Note: This article reflects the most recent developments as of October 2025 regarding potential blockbuster matches and wrestling politics surrounding Wrestle Kingdom 20.