Katsuyori Shibata Explains Why He Is Unlikely To Be Hiroshi Tanahashi’s Final Opponent

Katsuyori Shibata would love to be Hiroshi Tanahashi’s final opponent. However, that might not happen. He does suggest an alternative competitor he would like to see in that spot.

Katsuyori Shibata and Hiroshi Tanahashi were two-thirds of the “New Three Musketeers” of the 2000s. The third was WWE Superstar Shinsuke Nakamura. These three men were slated to usher in a new era for NJPW, and they lived up to that branding. Tanahashi has been the Ace of NJPW for nearly two decades and is now the president of the promotion. Tanahashi is in the final stretch of his retirement tour, which will end at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026.

In a recent interview with Tokyo Sports, Shibata stated that he would be delighted to be the final opponent for Tanahashi if asked. However, he also quipped that he is banned from the ring in NJPW. He also suggested that Aaron Wolf, an Olympic gold medalist who recently signed with NJPW, would be a fun final opponent for Tanahashi.

“I think Aaron Wolf would be the best. I think it would be interesting if Wolf’s debut match was Tanahashi’s retirement match. If they offered me the job and I could do it, I’d love to. However, I’m kind of banned from the ring too, so it might be difficult (laughs).”

Katsuyori Shibata faced Hiroshi Tanahashi in a five-minute grappling exhibition at NJPW x AEW Wrestle Dynasty 2025. The exhibition ended in a draw.

Shibata has also stated that he would like to see Shinsuke Nakamura be part of Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement tour. Read more about that here.