WWE fans and wrestling enthusiasts alike have taken to social media to pay tribute to the legendary Hiroshi Tanahashi following his emotional retirement match at New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s (NJPW) Wrestle Kingdom 20. Among those paying their respects is none other than 16-time WWE World Champion John Cena, who shared a poignant photo on his official Instagram account.
A Lasting Impact: Tanahashi’s Legacy in Professional Wrestling
For over two decades, Hiroshi Tanahashi has been a cornerstone of the professional wrestling world, captaining the New Japan Pro-Wrestling roster with his electrifying performances and unwavering dedication to the craft. The wrestling community has come together to celebrate the remarkable career of Tanahashi, with numerous tributes pouring in from around the globe.
John Cena, known for his own storied career in WWE, took to social media to express his admiration for the Japanese wrestling legend. Posting a photo of Tanahashi, Cena captioned the image: “A true champion, a true legend, and an inspiration to us all. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations of wrestlers to come.”
According to a WWE source close to Cena, the 16-time World Champion was deeply moved by Tanahashi’s emotional retirement match. “John was genuinely touched by Tanahashi’s heartfelt speech and the outpouring of love from the wrestling community,” the source revealed. “He wanted to pay his respects to someone who has meant so much to the sport we both love.”
The Lasting Influence of Tanahashi on Modern Wrestling
Tanahashi’s impact on professional wrestling extends far beyond his in-ring accomplishments. As a pioneering figure in the world of Japanese strong style, he has influenced a generation of wrestlers, including some of the biggest names in global professional wrestling.
From WWE Superstars like AJ Styles and The New Day, to NJPW’s own stars like Kazuchika Okada and Shingo Takagi, Tanahashi’s influence can be seen in the fluid, high-flying style of modern professional wrestling.
In a statement to PW Insider, a WWE talent praised Tanahashi’s innovative approach to wrestling, saying: “Hiroshi Tanahashi is a true original. His passion, his creativity, and his unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired so many of us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the ring.”
WWE Legends Remember the ‘Ace’ of New Japan
Tanahashi’s retirement marks the end of an era for New Japan Pro-Wrestling, but his legacy will live on through the countless wrestlers he has inspired and mentored throughout his illustrious career.
WWE Superstar and NJPW fan, Seth Rollins, paid tribute to Tanahashi on Twitter, writing: “I’m honored to have had the chance to watch Hiroshi Tanahashi in action. His dedication to the craft, his passion for the fans, and his unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired me time and time again.”
As the wrestling community continues to celebrate the remarkable career of Hiroshi Tanahashi, WWE fans and insiders alike are reflecting on the lasting impact of the Japanese wrestling legend.
“He’s not just a wrestler – he’s a hero,” Cena’s WWE source reflected. “His legacy will continue to inspire us for generations to come, and we’re all better off for having had the chance to witness his incredible career.”
In a fitting tribute to a man who has given so much to professional wrestling, Hiroshi Tanahashi’s legacy will continue to inspire and captivate fans around the world for years to come.
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