The wrestling world is buzzing after revelations that WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura expressed interest in being the final opponent for New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) legend Hiroshi Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom 20, set for January 4, 2026. Despite Nakamura’s intentions, the match is officially confirmed to be against AEW’s Kazuchika Okada, a longtime rival and one of Tanahashi’s most iconic opponents.
Nakamura’s Desire to Face Tanahashi’s Farewell
According to renowned wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Nakamura was genuinely interested in facing Tanahashi in his farewell bout. Meltzer noted, “Nakamura wanted to do it,” referencing a memorable moment at WWE’s Tokyo Super Show in October 2025 where Nakamura ended his segment with Tanahashi’s famous catchphrase “Aishitemasu!” (“I love you”), a heartfelt tribute that ignited speculation among fans and insiders alike[1][4].
A WWE insider shared that Nakamura’s interest wasn’t just a fleeting idea but something he pushed for quietly behind the scenes. “Shinsuke has always held Tanahashi in the highest regard, and this match would have been a dream scenario for him — a way to honor both their legacies in front of their home fans,” the source revealed.
Contractual and Logistical Barriers
While Nakamura’s WWE contract apparently includes a clause allowing him to wrestle elsewhere under certain conditions, any outside appearance would require WWE’s explicit approval[1]. Meltzer remarked that, although Nakamura’s contract does enable some flexibility, WWE never greenlit a deal for the Tanahashi retirement match, leading to the plan falling through.
Nakamura has wrestled outside WWE twice in recent years — once against The Great Muta and again against Ulka Sasaki at Pro Wrestling NOAH events — showing that such cross-promotional appearances are possible but rare[1].
A WWE source added, “There’s always a lot of negotiation when it comes to cross-promotional matches involving a company’s contracted talent. WWE is protective, especially with high-profile matches like this.”
Why Kazuchika Okada Became Tanahashi’s Final Opponent
Ultimately, the curtain will close on Tanahashi’s 26-year storied career with a match against Kazuchika Okada. Okada’s surprise appearance at NJPW’s Road to Anjo show on November 8, 2025, where he challenged Tanahashi publicly, made the matchup official[1][6]. The Okada-Tanahashi rivalry has previously produced some of the best matches in modern professional wrestling history, elevating this final bout’s significance even further.
Industry experts and fans widely expected Okada to secure the spot, with Fightful reporting that the AEW star was the most realistic candidate all along, despite brief rumors about other names like Kenny Omega and Nakamura[2][3].
Tanahashi and Okada have clashed an astonishing 248 times, with a deeply competitive record — 144 wins to Tanahashi, 100 to Okada, and four draws. This has cemented their status as the central storyline of NJPW’s last decade and a half[3].
Other Potential Opponents and Reactions
Besides Nakamura and Okada, other names such as Tetsuya Naito were reportedly considered. Naito voiced regret about not being chosen for Tanahashi’s final match, saying he would have accepted the honor if offered[5]. However, with the announcement finalized, the focus shifts fully to the long-awaited clash between the two NJPW icons.
What This Means for Nakamura and WWE
Shinsuke Nakamura’s interest in returning for one final marquee NJPW match highlights his respect for Tanahashi and his desire for high-profile opportunities beyond WWE’s usual scope. It also shines a light on the ongoing complexities and politics of inter-promotional cooperation in pro wrestling.
A backstage source commented, “This situation makes clear how much talent like Nakamura value their legacy moments and how restrictive contracts can sometimes get in the way of those ‘dream matches’ for the fans and themselves.”
Nakamura’s tribute and apparent wish show the profound impact Tanahashi has across promotions—underscoring how revered the “Ace” is beyond NJPW alone.
Looking Ahead: Wrestle Kingdom 20 Is Set to Be Historic
With the final pieces in place, Wrestle Kingdom 20 at the Tokyo Dome promises to be an unforgettable event, showcasing the culmination of Tanahashi’s career in a match against his greatest rival Okada. This bout will not only celebrate Tanahashi’s legacy but further intertwine history across NJPW and AEW, bridging fanbases and wrestling traditions.
As the countdown begins to January 4, 2026, fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating a showdown steeped in history, passion, and respect—a fitting farewell to one of Japan’s all-time greats, Hiroshi Tanahashi.
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