The head of NJPW, Hiroshi Tanahashi, has announced his retirement scheduled for January 2026 during the much-anticipated WrestleKingdom 20 pay-per-view.
The news was divulged by Tanahashi following his triumph in a six-man tag match at the NJPW King Of Pro Wrestling 2024 event.
Tanahashi further confirmed that his farewell match is planned for January 4, 2026, a renowned date for hosting the annual WrestleKingdom events.
Being one of the most celebrated athletes of New Japan, Tanahashi boasts a career marqueed with numerous title victories, including his eight-time reign as IWGP Heavyweight Champion.
In late 2023, Tanahashi rose to the position of President of New Japan. His accomplishments in this capacity have been immensely appreciated by company members, report sources.
「棚橋のゴールを決めました…2026年1月4日…」
なんと棚橋弘至選手が、2026年1.4での“レスラー引退”を決意…！
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— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) October 14, 2024