Talk of WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura returning to New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) is intensifying, especially in connection to Hiroshi Tanahashi’s highly anticipated retirement match. While this scenario remains speculative, top wrestling insider Dave Meltzer has expressed that a return to NJPW for Nakamura is not out of the question, fueling excitement among fans and industry insiders alike.
The Dream Match: Nakamura vs. Tanahashi for Retirement
One of the most compelling reasons Nakamura’s name keeps surfacing is as a potential final opponent for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement bout slated for Wrestle Kingdom 20 in January 2026 at the Tokyo Dome. Tanahashi, a legendary figure in NJPW, is expected to close his illustrious career with a memorable match befitting his status. Nakamura, with his own storied history in Japan, represents a natural and emotionally charged challenger.
Behind closed doors, NJPW officials have intermittently explored this possibility. However, insiders caution that it is still largely a “pipe dream” rather than a firm plan. According to sources close to NJPW, the match’s realization hinges on several complicated factors, most notably Nakamura’s WWE contract and the intricate politics between wrestling promotions.
Contractual Complications Cloud the Path
The main obstacle to Nakamura’s NJPW comeback centers on his current WWE contract status. Speculation has swirled throughout 2025 about whether Nakamura’s deal with WWE might expire by year’s end. However, NJPW insiders reportedly believe Nakamura quietly re-signed with WWE in 2024, which complicates any potential cross-promotional appearances.
WWE is known for maintaining tight control over its talent’s appearances outside its own programming, rarely permitting them to work with rival companies such as NJPW. This protective stance raises logistical and legal hurdles for Nakamura’s involvement in Tanahashi’s retirement match.
Wrestling Politics: NJPW, WWE, AEW, and CMLL Dynamics
Beyond Nakamura’s contract, there are broader backstage politics at play. NJPW holds strong working relationships with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and Mexico’s Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), both of whom are positioned in opposition to WWE’s global wrestling influence. AEW is WWE’s top competitor in the U.S., while CMLL’s rivalry with AAA (which allies indirectly with WWE partners) adds another layer of complexity. Bringing in a WWE-contracted superstar like Nakamura risks disrupting these delicate alliances.
An industry source commented, “NJPW values its partnerships with AEW and CMLL, and introducing a WWE talent into a marquee NJPW event could create serious friction. Any agreement would require extensive negotiation, if it happens at all.”
Signs From Nakamura: Hints and Homages
Nakamura himself has offered subtle nods to this possibility. During a recent WWE live event in Tokyo, he referenced Tanahashi by using Tanahashi’s famous catchphrase, “Aishitemasu” (“I love you”). Tanahashi responded cryptically on social media, stirring fan speculation about a possible in-ring reunion.
In addition, Nakamura’s reflective social media posts after WWE’s Japanese tour where he hinted at contemplating retirement have been interpreted by some as aligning with Tanahashi’s farewell timeline. The former Intercontinental Champion expressed an emotional connection to Japan and a respect for wrestlers who dedicate themselves fully to the sport’s sacred history.
Dave Meltzer’s Take: A Return Is Plausible but Not Set
Dave Meltzer, a well-respected authority in wrestling journalism, weighed in recently on Wrestling Observer Radio. While he acknowledged that a Nakamura vs. Tanahashi encounter is “not a done deal,” he did not rule it out. Meltzer explained that Nakamura’s contract allows some freedom for appearances in Japan, though navigating NJPW’s partnerships and WWE’s restrictions remains the real puzzle.
He noted, “Nakamura doing some Tanahashi mannerisms at the Tokyo show sparked a lot of backstage talk. The politics are weird, but it’s definitely possible.”
What’s Next for Nakamura and NJPW?
With Tanahashi’s retirement approaching, the pressure to craft the perfect sendoff match will only increase. NJPW has traditionally prioritized giving its legends fitting goodbyes, often involving longtime rivals or major stars linked to their careers. Nakamura fits that criterion perfectly, but making it happen requires overcoming corporate barriers and negotiation.
According to a WWE insider, “Discussions are happening, but WWE isn’t known for allowing their talent to appear across promotions easily. If Nakamura can come back for a special match, it would require a unique agreement that benefits all parties involved.”
While fans eagerly watch for official announcements, it’s clear Shinsuke Nakamura’s potential NJPW return remains one of the most intriguing stories this wrestling season.