At Wrestle Kingdom 20, Kazuchika Okada defeated NJPW legend Hiroshi Tanahashi in the main event held recently in front of over 46,000 fans, marking Tanahashi’s retirement match. The event was widely celebrated, attracting praise from wrestling veterans and fans worldwide. During this period, Shinsuke Nakamura, a former New Japan Pro Wrestling star and WWE NXT Champion, praised Okada for his role in honoring Tanahashi’s legacy despite being unable to attend the ceremony in person.
The History and Importance of Tanahashi’s Retirement Event
Hiroshi Tanahashi, who has battled numerous top stars in his career, including Shinsuke Nakamura, was honored with a retirement ceremony attended by names such as Tetsuya Naito, Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi, Jay White, and Will Ospreay. Nakamura, known as the King of Strong Style, spent 14 years with NJPW before moving to WWE. Though he missed Tanahashi’s ceremony, Nakamura viewed the match and shared high praise for Okada’s performance.
Okada Reflects on Nakamura’s Recognition and Support from Peers
In a recent interview with Tokyo Sports, Okada was informed about Nakamura’s commendation. Reacting positively, Okada expressed gratitude not only to Nakamura but also to AEW Trios Champion Katsuyori Shibata, recognizing their contributions to Tanahashi’s career. Despite being the winner in the match, Okada humbly credited Tanahashi as carrying much of the weight in the Wrestle Kingdom 20 main event.
“I thought, ‘He’s the man.’ He brought out Hiroshi Tanahashi’s greatest hits,” said Nakamura.
“I’m happy to hear Nakamura say that. With Shibata (Katsuyori)’s PK and Nakamura’s Kinshasa, I think Tanahashi was carrying a lot more on his shoulders than I was,” said Okada.
Kazuchika Okada’s Notable Career Milestones and Future Prospects
Kazuchika Okada is a seven-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and a former NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champion, currently signed to AEW. His rising profile in AEW has led many, including AEW CEO Tony Khan, to view him as a future AEW World Title contender. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing the Rainmaker compete for and potentially capture this championship within the year, further elevating his already prominent wrestling career.
