Shinsuke Nakamura Talks Possibly Reuniting With Hiroshi Tanahashi During His Retirement Tour

Hiroshi Tanahashi, known as “The Ace,” plans to retire from professional wrestling after Wrestle Kingdom 20 in January 2026.

Shinsuke Nakamura commented on Tanahashi’s planned retirement at the relatively young age of 48 in an interview with Tokyo Sports last December. Here are the highlights:

On his retirement: “In today’s world of professional wrestling, retiring at 48 years old may be a little early, but we cannot measure the damage Tanahashi has endured, and he must also have responsibilities as president.”

On making an appearance for his retirement: “I don’t know, I don’t know. They say ‘never say never’. I hear people saying that, but when you think about the reality of it… You can say whatever you want about emotions, but you have to clear the reality. There are probably some things I shouldn’t say, and I can’t promise anything. I can’t take responsibility for that.”