Fans were left in awe as Jay White made a surprise appearance at Wrestle Kingdom 20, joining major wrestling figures to honor Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement at the Tokyo Dome. The event, which served as a historic milestone for NJPW, was further electrified by White’s unexpected return and the array of tributes from the top stars in the industry, making the occasion unforgettable for wrestling enthusiasts.
Hiroshi Tanahashi’s Emotional Retirement Match
Wrestle Kingdom 20 became the stage for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s final wrestling match, closing out a legendary 25-year career that shaped modern Japanese professional wrestling. Facing Kazuchika Okada, Tanahashi fought valiantly but ultimately lost, ending his storied journey in the ring on an emotional note. Tanahashi’s legacy, built over decades, was unmistakable throughout the event, with fans and wrestlers alike paying homage to one of the sport’s greatest icons.
Tributes and Returns Make the Night Special
The event featured heartfelt tributes from some of NJPW’s biggest names. Tetsuya Naito, who had been absent for seven months, made an impactful return, taking the microphone to deliver a passionate address to Tanahashi. While some observers remarked on the length of his entrance, there was little doubt that Naito’s genuine emotion elevated the farewell atmosphere, spotlighting the deep respect Tanahashi commands in the wrestling world.
“🏟️WRESTLE KINGDOM 20 in 東京ドーム 棚橋弘至引退🏟️内藤哲也から棚橋弘至へ登録&視聴 ⏩ https://t.co/CcdQ1X9P52#NJPW#njpwworld#njwk20#棚橋引退pic.twitter.com/jPHPC6nTya”— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2026
Wrestling Legends Honor Tanahashi
Katsuyori Shibata added to the emotional weight of the night by confronting Tanahashi after his match. Shibata and Tanahashi exchanged a few hard-hitting chest chops before sharing a tearful embrace, leading Tanahashi to visibly break down from the outpouring of emotion and support. This expression of camaraderie and respect between long-time rivals captured the essence of what the night meant for NJPW and its fans.
“.@tanahashi1_100 🤝 @K_Shibata2022Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CcdQ1X9P52#NJPW#njpwworld#njwk20#棚橋引退pic.twitter.com/EyGV3HVBwL”— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2026
Kota Ibushi and Kenny Omega also participated in honoring Tanahashi, each presenting him with flowers as a mark of respect for his unparalleled contributions to professional wrestling. These tributes highlighted the broad impact that Tanahashi has had on his peers across generations and organizations.
Jay White’s Dramatic Comeback Steals the Show
Amid the heartfelt farewells, the crowd was thrown into frenzy when Jay White—absent from AEW for months due to injury—stepped into the spotlight at the Tokyo Dome. Known for his leadership of Bullet Club and his complicated history with NJPW, White’s embrace with Tanahashi drew an outpouring of emotion from the audience. His return fueled speculation and excitement, reinforcing the event’s significance not only in celebrating a retiring legend but in setting the stage for future storylines.
A Night That Will Be Remembered for Years
Wrestle Kingdom 20 will be marked as a watershed moment in NJPW’s history, combining the deeply moving retirement of Hiroshi Tanahashi with surprise appearances and tributes from the sport’s most influential figures. With Jay White’s return and the show of unity among wrestlers, the Tokyo Dome witnessed scenes that are unlikely to be matched in years to come, leaving an enduring legacy for fans and performers alike.
🏟️WRESTLE KINGDOM 20 in 東京ドーム 棚橋弘至引退🏟️
内藤哲也から棚橋弘至へ
登録&視聴 ⏩ https://t.co/CcdQ1X9P52#NJPW #njpwworld #njwk20 #棚橋引退 pic.twitter.com/jPHPC6nTya
— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2026
.@tanahashi1_100 🤝 @K_Shibata2022
Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CcdQ1X9P52#NJPW #njpwworld #njwk20 #棚橋引退 pic.twitter.com/EyGV3HVBwL
— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2026
.@tanahashi1_100 💐 @ibushi_kota & @KennyOmegamanX
Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CcdQ1X9P52#NJPW #njpwworld #njwk20 #棚橋引退 pic.twitter.com/6yylY0oY2v
— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2026
.@tanahashi1_100 💐 @JayWhiteNZ
Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CcdQ1XamUA#NJPW #njpwworld #njwk20 #棚橋引退 pic.twitter.com/jombbphOhL
— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2026
