Kazuchika Okada recently reached a significant professional milestone that highlights why he is considered among the most elite wrestlers globally. Having already made a massive impact in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) and AEW, Okada returned to NJPW to participate in Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement match at Wrestle Kingdom 20, adding to his list of high-profile achievements and reaffirming his exceptional skill in the ring.
After a dominant run as AEW’s Continental Champion, holding the title for an impressive 647 days, Okada made headlines with his return to NJPW. His highly anticipated contest against Hiroshi Tanahashi was billed as a landmark event in the wrestling world, not just due to the significance of Tanahashi’s retirement, but also because both competitors delivered a performance filled with intensity and emotion. Their match lasted thirty minutes and kept the audience captivated throughout. In a fitting end to a storied rivalry, Okada emerged victorious, further cementing his legacy on one of the brightest stages in professional wrestling.
Unprecedented Acclaim for Okada and Tanahashi’s Epic Showdown
The wrestling community quickly hailed the bout as a classic. Notably, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter bestowed the match with a rare six-star rating, a testament to the high-caliber competition and storytelling on display. This recognition also marked Okada’s 31st five-star rated match and Tanahashi’s 18th. The impressive numbers underline both men’s long-standing reputations as two of the sport’s all-time greats. Acknowledgment from leading analysts further validates their significant contributions to wrestling, particularly at marquee events such as Wrestle Kingdom 20.
Okada’s journey from conquering New Japan Pro Wrestling to becoming a dominant force in AEW, then returning to collaborate in historic matches, demonstrates his versatility and enduring star power. The event also honored Tanahashi’s storied career, as he exited the ring after facing a familiar and respected rival. These achievements contribute to the ongoing evolution of global wrestling, hinting at possible new rivalries and alliances in the months ahead.
Okada Reflects on His Career and Thoughts on Retirement
With prominent figures in wrestling such as Christopher Daniels, Sting, and John Cena recently retiring, discussions surrounding legends in the business have grown. AJ Styles has also made it known that his own retirement is on the horizon for 2026. Amid these transitions, many have begun to speculate about Kazuchika Okada’s future.
Addressing the topic himself, Okada provided some personal insight into where he stands:
“My retirement? I mean I’ve been around to be in NJPW and see people come and go, and then for me to leave as well, it says how much of a career I’ve had already. I don’t think I’m anywhere near retiring yet, but I am aware that day will come some time. Maybe I should ask Tanahashi to be my final opponent? Oh wait he’s finishing up. (laughs)” [H/T NJPW]
Okada’s words reflect confidence in his ongoing journey, while acknowledging that even storied careers eventually conclude. Fans and fellow wrestlers continue to wonder about his future, especially considering the excitement and passion he generates in every appearance, whether in AEW, NJPW, or elsewhere.
The Path Ahead for Okada and the Wrestling Landscape
The milestone victory and acclaimed performance at Wrestle Kingdom 20 showcase Kazuchika Okada’s enduring passion and capacity to rise to major occasions. With the wrestling world observing his every move, from successful championship reigns in AEW to powerful homecomings in NJPW, Okada’s legacy grows ever more formidable. As the industry sees icons like Hiroshi Tanahashi depart and speculates about the futures of names like John Cena and AJ Styles, Okada remains a force to watch, with new chapters yet to be written in his storied career. The anticipation surrounding his next steps underscores his significance and the ongoing evolution of professional wrestling.
Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Dave Meltzer has rated Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Kazuchika Okada from Wrestle Kingdom 20… SIX STARS!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
31st 5-star match for Okada.
18th 5-star match for Tanahashi.THE ACE FINISHED HIS CAREER BY BREAKING THE SCALE ONE MORE TIME. pic.twitter.com/FZfl9prjza
— Drainmaker (@TheDrainmaker) January 9, 2026
