Kenny Omega from AEW is set to make his return to New Japan Pro Wrestling at a significant upcoming event. Before AEW was established in 2019, Omega was a key figure in New Japan Pro Wrestling and has continued to appear in the promotion over the years. It’s confirmed that Omega will be present with Will Ospreay at Wrestle Kingdom 20 and will participate in the special retirement ceremony for Hiroshi Tanahashi at the event’s conclusion.
New Japan Pro Wrestling announced that Hiroshi Tanahashi’s illustrious 26-year career will conclude on January 4th with his final match against his long-time rival Kazuchika Okada. Following the match, Wrestle Kingdom 20 will close with a special tribute ceremony honoring Tanahashi’s legendary career, with notable guests including Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay, both of whom currently wrestle in AEW rings. Omega and Tanahashi have a deep history, having competed for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship in 2016 after Omega’s shift to heavyweight, culminating in a famous rivalry that played a role in AEW’s creation in 2019.
Recently, Omega and Ospreay teamed up with Kota Ibushi and Darby Allin at the Forbidden Door event in August, winning a lights-out steel cage match against top competitors Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Gabe Kidd, and The Young Bucks. Kenny Omega made a standout return to New Japan Pro Wrestling in January 2025 after a hiatus, defeating Gabe Kidd at Wrestle Dynasty.
For AEW fans, Kenny Omega’s return to New Japan Pro Wrestling signifies a meaningful bridge between the two iconic wrestling promotions. This move not only honors wrestling history but also has the potential to boost cross-promotional storylines and elevate the sport globally.
