Hiroshi Tanahashi Claims He and Shinsuke Nakamura Talked About One Last Match

Hiroshi Tanahashi is set to close the book on his in-ring career at Wrestle Kingdom 20 in a high-stakes farewell match against longtime rival Kazuchika Okada. But while the NJPW legend is ready to say goodbye in front of the Tokyo Dome crowd, he recently revealed there was another dream match he and the fans never got to see—a final showdown with Shinsuke Nakamura.

Speaking to the press via Tokyo Sports ahead of his retirement match, Tanahashi admitted that he and Nakamura seriously talked about doing one last match together when Nakamura returned to Japan for a WWE appearance.

“When Nakamura came to Japan I was talking about various things and we were saying that we wanted to do it one last time, but well, there are a lot of things going on…”

The line says a lot without saying everything. While Tanahashi didn’t elaborate on the “things going on,” it’s no secret that Nakamura is under WWE contract—making a Wrestle Kingdom appearance difficult, if not impossible. Still, the fact that both men discussed it speaks volumes about their respect and unfinished business. Tanahashi went on to speak fondly of Nakamura’s role in his career, calling him a true rival and reflecting on what their history meant.

“Nakamura was always my rival, and Naito joined New Japan because he liked Tanahashi. I want them to think, ‘I wasn’t wrong.’ I want them to think, ‘I’m glad I was Tanahashi’s rival,’ and ‘I’m glad I admired Tanahashi,’ and I want all the fans to think, ‘I’m glad I supported Tanahashi,’ and I want it all to have a happy ending.”

While Nakamura won’t be part of the Tokyo Dome match—for now—it’s clear that Tanahashi was hoping for a final chapter with the man who helped define NJPW’s golden era alongside him.