Corey Graves References Retirement Of Hiroshi Tanahashi On WWE Raw

Corey Graves gave a mention to Hiroshi Tanahashi and his retirement on Monday’s WWE Raw.

The mention came after IYO SKY hit a slingblade on Asuka.

“A maneuver taught to IYO by none other than Hiroshi Tanahashi, who just celebrated his retirement,” said Graves on commentary.

Beautiful sling blade from IYO SKY, and Corey Graves mentions Tanahashi. #WWERAW
pic.twitter.com/ROn87tbi8P

— 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐕𝐞𝐧 (@WrestlingCovers) January 6, 2026

Tanahashi retired on January 4th at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20, facing Kazuchika Okada in his final match.

IYO posted the following message to Tanahashi ahead of his retirement:

You have given wonderful influence to a tremendous number of pro wrestlers
I am one of them

The title of “Etsujo” (逸女) bestowed upon me by Issai during our discussion 11 years ago is a treasure for my lifetime!

January 4, 2026
#TanahashiRetirement Cheering you on from America

GO!! ACE!!!!!

たっっっっくさんのプロレスラーに素晴らしい影響を与えてくださりました
私もそのうちのひとり

11年前の対談で逸材に授けていただいた“逸女“（ｲﾂｼﾞｮ）の肩書きは私の一生の宝物！

2026年1月4日#棚橋引退 アメリカから応援しています

GO!! ACE!!!!!✨✨✨✨ pic.twitter.com/Fp3PtBR14i

— IYO SKY (@Iyo_SkyWWE) January 4, 2026

Fans can find Fightful’s coverage of WWE Raw by clicking here. Check out the post-show podcast for a full review here.