In a shocking turn of events, rumors have been circulating about the potential final match for one of Japan’s greatest wrestling legends, Hiroshi Tanahashi. The news has left fans eagerly speculating about who will have the honor of stepping into the ring with the esteemed champion in his farewell bout. However, AEW and NJPW president Tony Khan has taken to the airwaves to address these claims, and it seems that Shinsuke Nakamura’s name is not on the list of possible opponents.
Khan Denies Blocking Nakamura from Facing Tanahashi
In an interview with Q101, Tony Khan was asked to address the rumors surrounding Tanahashi’s retirement match and the alleged involvement of Shinsuke Nakamura. Khan categorically denied any involvement in blocking Nakamura from facing Tanahashi in what would be the latter’s final match.
“I think it’s time to put this rumor to rest,” Khan said. “There’s been a lot of speculation and misinformation going around, but I can confidently say that we have nothing to do with blocking Shinsuke Nakamura from facing Hiroshi Tanahashi in his final match. I think it’s unfair to both parties and I’m sure Hiroshi would agree that his final match should be decided by him, not by anyone else.”
Sources Close to Tanahashi Reveal Details About His Final Match Plans
Sources close to Hiroshi Tanahashi have revealed that the Japanese legend has been quietly working behind the scenes to make his final match a truly special one. According to insiders, Tanahashi has been in talks with NJPW management about the possibility of facing a fellow countryman in his farewell bout.
“It’s been a dream of Hiroshi’s to face a Japanese wrestler in his final match,” a source revealed. “He’s been in talks with NJPW about potential opponents, and it seems like he’s leaning towards facing someone he has a lot of respect for. Let’s just say that the rumors about Shinsuke Nakamura may be premature.”
Impact of Khan’s Statement on AEW-NJPW Relations
Khan’s statement on the matter will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the relationship between AEW and NJPW. While Khan had previously denied any involvement in blocking Nakamura from facing Tanahashi, the rumors had sparked concerns about the potential for future collaborations between the two promotions.
However, according to sources close to Khan, the denial is seen as a major step forward in repairing the relationship between the two promotions. “Tony Khan’s statement is a clear indication that he’s committed to working with NJPW on future projects,” a source revealed. “The last thing he wants is for these rumors to harm the relationship between AEW and NJPW. He’s always been a huge fan of Japanese wrestling and he’s eager to collaborate with NJPW on future events.”
The Future of AEW-NJPW Collaborations
As the news of Khan’s statement spreads, fans are left wondering what the future holds for AEW-NJPW collaborations. With the denial of any involvement in blocking Nakamura from facing Tanahashi, it seems that the path is clear for a future working relationship between the two promotions.
“I think this is a major breakthrough for AEW and NJPW,” a source revealed. “Tony Khan has always been a huge fan of Japanese wrestling, and he’s eager to bring some of the biggest names in the business to AEW. With this denial, it seems like the door is now open for future collaborations, and we can expect some major announcements in the coming months.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tony Khan’s statement on the matter of Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement match has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. While the rumors about Shinsuke Nakamura’s involvement in Tanahashi’s final match may be premature, it seems that the door is now open for future collaborations between AEW and NJPW.
As the wrestling world waits with bated breath for the final match of Tanahashi’s illustrious career, one thing is certain: this will be a match for the ages.