Hiroshi Tanahashi Reflects on His 26-Year Wrestling Career Ahead of Retirement Match at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20

NJPW’s upcoming Wrestle Kingdom 20 event on January 4, 2026 at the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan will be featuring Hiroshi Tanahashi facing off against Kazuchika Okada in Tanahashi’s retirement match for his in-ring wrestling career.

Following Monday’s Road to Tokyo Dome event in Tokyo, Tanahashi gave his thoughts in a post-match backstage press conference about his match against Kosei Fujita and reflected on his 26-year wrestling career coming to an end soon.

“Thanks to all of you for packing Korakuen today. When I think of Korakuen, I can’t help but think back to the 2000s. We were doing all that we could to try and fill this place. I clearly remember the first time it was packed and I’m truly grateful we could finish out 2025 in this way.

It went by so fast. 2025, 26 years after my debut. How did it go by so fast? I think it’s because I gave everything to it.

Today at Korakuen Hall and January 4 in the Tokyo Dome, this proves I was meant to be a pro wrestler. I’m giving it my all until the end.

In 2026, New Japan will present the best lineup. The wrestlers and staff will give it our all. Please stick with us. Thank you for all your support in 2025.”

'I'll give it my all until the end'

A teary eyed Tanahashi reflects on his last Korakuen Hall match:pic.twitter.com/EZMUgwa7NY

— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) December 23, 2025

Transcript h/t: F4WOnline.com