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Wrestle Kingdom 20: A Farewell to Hiroshi Tanahashi
Wrestle Kingdom 20 concluded on January 4, 2026, marking a poignant chapter as Kazuchika Okada claimed victory against Hiroshi Tanahashi in the main event. This match officially signaled the end of Tanahashi’s illustrious career, but what followed was a truly heartwarming farewell that will be remembered in wrestling lore.
Once the match ended, the arena lights dimmed, and a procession of wrestling legends and former opponents entered the ring, not to confront Tanahashi, but to honor him.
The first surprise of the evening came when Jay White made an unexpected return to New Japan Pro Wrestling, walking down the ramp with flowers in hand. The audience erupted as he entered the ring, presenting Tanahashi with the bouquet in a moment of respect and a shared history that transformed from rivalry to admiration.
Next, Kota Ibushi, a longtime friend and adversary, embraced Tanahashi in an emotional display. The crowd barely had a moment to recover before Kenny Omega joined in the celebration, followed by Will Ospreay, acknowledging the contributions Tanahashi made to their careers.
In a touching moment, Katsuyori Shibata, back in New Japan Pro Wrestling, approached Tanahashi and gifted him a flower. The two exchanged joyful sentiments and playfully clashed in the ring, rekindling the spirit of their storied rivalry.
The emotional wave continued as legends Keiji Muto and Tatsuji Fujinami entered, representing the foundational pillars of wrestling that Tanahashi helped elevate. Surrounded by an emotional crowd, the gathering of wrestling icons created a special moment in the Tokyo Dome.
Finally, Tetsuya Naito made his appearance, once again challenging his mentor in a symbolic gesture. In his heartfelt promo, Naito expressed his gratitude to Tanahashi for believing in him during his formative years in wrestling.
Tanahashi then addressed the crowd with heartfelt appreciation, reflecting on his two-decade journey and thanking his fans. He took one last air guitar solo with an invisible guitar, leading the Tokyo Dome in a rousing chorus, while the audience cheered in unison. The night concluded with a traditional 10-bell salute, leaving Tanahashi in tears as he bid farewell to his fans.
This occasion wasn’t just a retirement; it was a celebration of legacy, a generational handover, and a tribute to a figure who had been the backbone of New Japan Pro Wrestling for over 20 years.
Fan Take: This moment is monumental for wrestling fans as it symbolizes not only the end of an era but also highlights the camaraderie and respect within the wrestling community. Tanahashi’s farewell could inspire a new wave of talent in the sport and reinforces the importance of legacy in professional wrestling.
