New Japan Pro Wrestling has quietly discussed a major dream match for Hiroshi Tanahashiâ€s eventual retirement—and the name brought up was none other than Shinsuke Nakamura. While fans would love to see the former NJPW icon return for one final Tokyo Dome showdown, the chances of that happening are slim based on everything weâ€ve learned.
Internal conversations in NJPW did involve Nakamura as a possible opponent for Tanahashiâ€s final match, potentially taking place at Wrestle Kingdom 2026. However, the idea was described more as a “pipe dream†than an actual plan. Those within NJPW reportedly floated Nakamuraâ€s name, but it didnâ€t progress beyond casual discussion.
The biggest obstacle is Nakamuraâ€s current status with WWE. Some in the wrestling world believe he quietly re-signed with WWE sometime in 2024. NJPW sources also seem to be under that impression, although no one has confirmed it publicly. Despite rumors that his contract could expire in 2025, those details remain locked down—and that uncertainty makes planning a Tanahashi match around Nakamura extremely difficult.
Another possible issue to this situation is the political tension between promotions. NJPW is tightly partnered with AEW and CMLL, while WWE has ownership over AAA. That complicates any potential cooperation involving WWE talent. With the fierce rivalry between AAA and CMLL, NJPW making any overtures to a WWE-contracted Nakamura could cause friction with their existing allies.
Even if the contract and politics werenâ€t in the way, the idea of Nakamura returning would likely need WWEâ€s full cooperation. Right now, that doesnâ€t seem likely—especially with the current wrestling landscape so divided between competing companies.
Adding fuel to the fire, Nakamura recently mimicked Tanahashiâ€s poses during WWEâ€s tour of Japan, leading to fan speculation. But based on whatâ€s known, thereâ€s no deal, no negotiation, and no real progress—just a nostalgic wish floated inside NJPWâ€s walls.
A Tanahashi vs. Nakamura retirement match could still happen if the stars align, but for now, it lives in the realm of fantasy booking—enticing to think about, but nowhere close to happening.
Would you like to see Nakamura return to NJPW for one final showdown with Tanahashi? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
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