Nakamura Pays Tribute to Retiring Tanahashi at WWE Tokyo Show
Table of Contents
- 1. Nakamura Pays Tribute to Retiring Tanahashi at WWE Tokyo Show
- 2. A Gesture of Respect
- 3. Tanahashi’s Response
- 4. A Shared History
- 5. Tanahashi’s Farewell
- 6. The Evolving Landscape of Pro Wrestling partnerships
- 7. Frequently Asked Questions
- 8. What impact could Nakamura’s acknowledgment have on the relationship between WWE and NJPW, considering WWE’s historical separation from other promotions?
- 9. Shinsuke Nakamura Pays Tribute to Hiroshi Tanahashi at WWE House show – A Moment of Respect
- 10. The Shoutout: Details from the WWE Live Event
- 11. The History: Nakamura & Tanahashi in NJPW
- 12. Significance of the Shoutout: Bridging the WWE/NJPW Divide
- 13. Tanahashi’s Recent Injury & Recovery
Tokyo, Japan – October 17, 2025 – Shinsuke Nakamura, a prominent Superstar with World Wrestling Entertainment, acknowledged a forthcoming career conclusion of a former competitor during a recent WWE event in Tokyo. The gesture, made at Sumo Hall, recognized the impending retirement of New Japan Pro-Wrestling icon Hiroshi Tanahashi.
A Gesture of Respect
Nakamura was participating in a tag team match alongside jey Uso against Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed when he took a moment to address the Japanese crowd. Following their victory, Nakamura delivered a brief message expressing his enjoyment of performing in Tokyo and then unexpectedly uttered Tanahashi’s signature phrase, “Aishitemasu,” which translates to “I love you.”
Tanahashi’s Response
The acknowledgment did not go unnoticed by Tanahashi, who is currently serving as President of NJPW. He responded to Nakamura’s tribute with a post on social media stating, “huh? I thought I heard something…”
yeah? I think I heard something…
– Hiroshi Tanahashi (@tanahashi1_100)
october 17, 2025
Nakamura and Tanahashi have a long and storied history within the professional wrestling world. They competed against each other, and alongside each other, during their tenures with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, representing a key component of the company’s rise to prominence.Nakamura transitioned to WWE in 2016, marking a significant shift in his career.
Tanahashi’s Farewell
Tanahashi is preparing for his final match, scheduled to take place at the Tokyo Dome on January 4, 2026. At this time, no opponent has been officially announced. While a confrontation between Nakamura and Tanahashi appears improbable given the existing partnership alignments of NJPW with AEW and CMLL, and WWE’s collaborations with Pro Wrestling NOAH and Marigold, the gesture underscores the deep respect between the two wrestlers.
Did You Know? Hiroshi Tanahashi is widely credited with helping to revitalize New Japan Pro-Wrestling in the 2000s, leading a ‘Golden Age’ of japanese professional wrestling.
The Evolving Landscape of Pro Wrestling partnerships
The professional wrestling industry has seen an increase in collaborative efforts between different promotions recently. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has fostered relationships with NJPW and CMLL, creating opportunities for talent exchange and cross-promotional events. WWE, while maintaining it’s own partnerships, frequently collaborates with promotions like NOAH and Marigold. These partnerships aim to expand reach, offer unique matchups, and provide fresh content for fans.
| Promotion | Key Partnerships |
|---|---|
| WWE | Pro Wrestling NOAH, Marigold |
| NJPW | AEW, CMLL |
| AEW | NJPW, CMLL |
Pro Tip: Following international wrestling promotions can provide fans with insight into different styles and approaches to the sport, broadening their recognition for the art form.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the meaning of Nakamura using Tanahashi’s catchphrase? Its a public display of respect and acknowledgement of their shared history and Tanahashi’s upcoming retirement.
- Who is Hiroshi Tanahashi? Hiroshi Tanahashi is a legendary professional wrestler and the current President of New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
- Why is a match between Nakamura and Tanahashi unlikely? The alignment of their respective promotions-WWE and NJPW-with different partner organizations makes a match logistically challenging.
- What is “aishitemasu”? It’s a Japanese phrase meaning “I love you,” popularized by hiroshi Tanahashi.
- What is the date of Tanahashi’s retirement match? January 4, 2026, at the Tokyo Dome.
- How have wrestling partnerships evolved? Promotions increasingly collaborate for talent exchange and cross-promotional events, expanding reach and providing unique content.
- Besides WWE and NJPW, which other promotions are key players in the wrestling world? AEW and CMLL are significant promotions actively fostering international collaborations.
What do you think about Nakamura’s tribute to Tanahashi? And how meaningful is it to see wrestlers acknowledge each other’s careers nonetheless of promotion?
What impact could Nakamura’s acknowledgment have on the relationship between WWE and NJPW, considering WWE’s historical separation from other promotions?
Shinsuke Nakamura Pays Tribute to Hiroshi Tanahashi at WWE House show – A Moment of Respect
Shinsuke Nakamura’s recent gesture at a WWE house show, honoring New Japan Pro-Wrestling legend Hiroshi Tanahashi, has resonated with fans worldwide. This display of respect between two wrestling icons highlights the interconnected nature of the professional wrestling world and the enduring bonds forged within it. This article details the event,its significance,and the history between Nakamura and Tanahashi.
The Shoutout: Details from the WWE Live Event
During a WWE house show on October 16, 2025, following a match – details of the specific opponent are currently limited – Shinsuke Nakamura took the microphone and delivered a heartfelt shoutout to Hiroshi Tanahashi. Reports from attendees (and initial coverage on platforms like the 巴哈姆特 WWE 哈啦板) indicate Nakamura spoke in Japanese, expressing his admiration and respect for “The Ace” of New Japan.
* The shoutout lasted approximately 30-45 seconds.
* Nakamura specifically wished Tanahashi well in his ongoing recovery from injury.
* The gesture was met with a positive reaction from the live audience, many of whom are familiar with both wrestlers’ careers.
* Social media quickly lit up with videos and reactions from fans present at the show.
The History: Nakamura & Tanahashi in NJPW
The relationship between Shinsuke Nakamura and Hiroshi Tanahashi is deeply rooted in thier shared history within New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). Their rivalry, spanning several years, is considered one of the most compelling in modern wrestling history.
* Early Encounters (2013-2015): Their initial clashes were characterized by Nakamura’s unpredictable style challenging Tanahashi’s established dominance. These matches frequently enough main-evented major NJPW shows.
* The IC Title Saga (2016): A especially memorable feud revolved around the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. Nakamura’s reign as champion and his subsequent defenses against Tanahashi were critically acclaimed.
* Wrestle Kingdom 10 (2016): Their Wrestle Kingdom 10 match is widely regarded as a classic, showcasing both wrestlers’ athleticism and storytelling ability. Tanahashi ultimately defeated Nakamura to retain the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.
* Mutual Respect: Despite the intense rivalry, a clear sense of mutual respect always existed between the two. This is evident in post-match interactions and interviews.
Significance of the Shoutout: Bridging the WWE/NJPW Divide
Nakamura’s tribute is notable for several reasons, particularly in the context of the evolving relationship between WWE and NJPW.
* Acknowledging Roots: It demonstrates Nakamura’s continued respect for his past and the wrestlers who shaped his career in NJPW.
* Breaking the Fourth Wall: While WWE often maintains a separation between its world and other promotions,this gesture acknowledges the broader wrestling community.
* Fan Thankfulness: It’s a nod to fans who followed both wrestlers’ careers across promotions.Many fans are aware of the history and appreciate the acknowledgment.
* Potential for Future Collaboration: While not directly indicative of future collaborations, it keeps the door open for potential storylines or partnerships between WWE and NJPW talent.
Tanahashi’s Recent Injury & Recovery
Hiroshi Tanahashi has been sidelined due to a right knee injury sustained in July 2025. The injury required surgery, and his recovery timeline is ongoing.Nakamura’s shoutout was a direct response to Tanahashi’s health situation.
* Surgery Details: Tanahashi underwent surgery to repair damage to his right knee.
* Rehabilitation: He is currently undergoing intensive rehabilitation to regain full mobility and strength.
* Expected Return: While an exact return date is unknown, NJPW has stated they expect Tanahashi to return to the ring in early 2026.
* Industry Support: Numerous wrestlers from
