Hiroshi Tanahashi Reflects on First Six Months Since Retiring From the Ring, His Experience at Forbidden Door

During a recent interview with Planeta Wrestling, NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi discussed a variety of topics, including his first six months since retiring from the ring, attending Forbidden Door, the G1 Climax, and more. Below are some highlights:

On His First Six Months Since Retiring From the Ring

“Hiroshi Tanahashi: After January 4th, I’ve spent the last six months in the office, practically relearning the job from scratch. As president, it’s important to maintain a clear vision for NJPW and for everyone in the company to share that vision and move in the same direction. That’s why I’ve been having lunch meetings with everyone in the company, as well as keeping an eye on our talent and their dedication in the ring. Personally, I don’t miss life in the ring at all. I’m satisfied that I gave everything I had to give for 26 years.”

Hiroshi Tanahashi on Forbidden Door

“I had the honor of attending Forbidden Door this year, and it was a tremendous show. Tony Khan and I sat down and had a very productive conversation; we talked about NJPW under the new direction of TV Asahi, as well as how we will continue to cooperate: AEW with its support to NJPW in the United States, and NJPW supporting AEW in its future plans in Japan. I think it is very important to increase the recognition of our respective fighters in the other country, and a solid talent exchange and cooperation system can benefit everyone.”

On Dominion and What Can Be Improved for the Rest of the Year

“From Wrestle Kingdom in January to Dominion in June, I think there’s been a fantastic atmosphere and vibe surrounding NJPW. Going into the second half of the year, the immediate goal in the ring will be the success of the G1, and outside of it, one aspect I’d like to explore is how other retired wrestlers from this generation, like Tiger Mask and Hiroyoshi Tenzan, can best contribute to NJPW in the future.”

His Thoughts on This Year’s G1 Climax Tournament

“This year’s G1 card is truly excellent. Any of the 20 wrestlers has a chance to win, and that’s very exciting. As for holding the first night in the United States, I think it’s a crucial event that can set the stage for the next three, four, or five years. It’s important for American fans to get a close look at today’s NJPW wrestlers and the current NJPW style, so this is an opportunity for that.”

On NJPW’s International Partners

“All of our international partnerships are of utmost importance to us. CMLL and NJPW have never been closer, especially when it comes to sending our wrestlers on tour, as well as our annual joint events. Fantasticamania is always one of the most popular tours on the NJPW calendar; in recent years, we’ve also had Fantasticamania in Mexico, and now Lucha Kingdom is scheduled for November. We’re constantly thinking together about how to take this collaboration to an even higher level.”

As previously reported, Tanahashi also recently commented on the completion of the sale of NJPW to TV Asahi and CyberAgent.