Wrestling

Katsuyori Shibata, Jay White, Tetsuya Naito, Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi Appear At Retirement Ceremony For Hiroshi Tanahashi

Jeremy LambertJanuary 4, 2026, 6:24 am
hiroshi tanahashi katsuyori shibata

Hiroshi Tanahashi finished up his in-ring career at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20, losing to Kazuchika Okada in the main event.

After the bout, Okada thanked Tanahashi before walking off.

The New Japan locker room emptied out as Tanahashi was presented with flowers by NJPW officials.

As Tanahashi stood alone in the ring, some of his top friends and foes from the past returned to send him off into retirement.

First was Jay White, who is currently sidelined with injury. White battled Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom 12 after returning from excursion.

He was followed by Will Ospreay, who faced Tanahashi twice in singles competition during their respective careers.

Kenny Omega and Kota Ibushi, who limped out without a crutch and is still dealing with a broken femur, were out next. Omega and Tanahashi had many battles, including Omega’s last match as a full-time NJPW performer at Wrestle Kingdom 13.

Katsuyori Shibata was next to greet Tanahashi. Instead of immediately hugging Tanahashi, he locked up with “The Ace” and they exchanged chops before hugging. Shibata, Tanahashi, and Shinsuke Nakamura were the Three Musketeers of NJPW.

Keiji Mutoh and Tatsumi Fujinami got in the ring next to share a moment with Tanahashi.

After group photos, Tetsuya Naito and BUSHI made their return to NJPW to pay their respects to Tanahashi. Naito got on the mic and said even though he left NJPW, Tanahashi gave him the chance to walk down the ramp one last time. They hit the tranquilo pose before Naito left the ring.

Fans can find Fightful’s coverage of NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 by clicking here. Check out the post-show podcast for a full review here.

Tags
Jeremy LambertJanuary 4, 2026, 6:24 am

Related Articles

njpw new year dash

NJPW New Year Dash!! Results (1/5): Two Title Matches

January 5, 2026, 4:46 am
njpw the collective

Death Vegas Invitacional, Spring Break, Bloodsport, WrestleCon SuperShow, More Announced For The Collective 2026

January 4, 2026, 11:12 pm
mjf aew dynamite 1/7

MJF To Appear On 1/7 AEW Dynamite

January 4, 2026, 10:56 pm
wwe_live_holiday_tour

WWE Live Results From Bridgeport, CT (1/4): Cody Rhodes Faces Drew McIntyre In A Cage Match

January 4, 2026, 10:46 pm
Back to top button