Shinsuke Nakamura, a legendary figure in Japanese professional wrestling and current WWE superstar, delivered a heartbreaking message to his fans after missing the retirement ceremony of Hiroshi Tanahashi. The emotional moment unfolded at Wrestle Kingdom 20 in the historic Tokyo Dome, where Tanahashi’s final match marked the end of an era.
Nakamura’s Absence at Tanahashi’s Farewell Honored by Rivals
During the main event of Wrestle Kingdom 20, Hiroshi Tanahashi, often called “The Ace” of New Japan Pro Wrestling, squared off against Kazuchika Okada in his last singles match. After the match concluded, numerous iconic rivals—including Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi, Jay White, Katsuyori Shibata, and Will Ospreay—took to the ring to pay tribute to Tanahashi’s storied career. However, perhaps his closest and most historic rival, Shinsuke Nakamura, was not among them, despite strong expectations from fans worldwide who hoped to see both superstars share the spotlight one last time.
Nakamura Shares His Emotional Struggle Over Missing the Event
In an interview with Tokyo Sports, Nakamura, known as the King of Strong Styles, explained the difficulty and disappointment he felt at not being able to attend the ceremony. He acknowledged his effort to join Tanahashi’s farewell but pointed to unavoidable circumstances that kept him away due to his current WWE commitments.
“I believe I did everything I could… but that it didn’t happen, well, maybe it was because I had other missions to fulfill. That’s the only way to see it. In its own way, it’s dramatic, I suppose.”
– Shinsuke Nakamura, King of Strong Styles
Fans across the globe expressed their longing for a final in-person encounter between Nakamura and Tanahashi, who have impacted each other’s careers as rivals and icons of Japanese wrestling.
A Tribute Carried Forward in the Tokyo Dome
Even though Nakamura was unable to attend in person, his presence was felt in a powerful way during the event. Konosuke Takeshita, who defended his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship against Yota Tsuji in a high-stakes double title match, honored Nakamura by wearing his famous red armband to the ring. This symbolic gesture was widely recognized as a way of channeling Nakamura’s fighting spirit, ensuring that his legacy and influence were present at the Tokyo Dome on such a significant night.
The act was met with appreciation from fans worldwide, who applauded Takeshita’s efforts to keep Nakamura’s influence alive at the emotional farewell, further cementing the bond between generations of wrestling stars and their loyal supporters.
The Enduring Impact of Legendary Rivalries
Shinsuke Nakamura’s heartbreaking message to fans underscores the intense connections and narratives that make professional wrestling resonate so deeply. While he could not attend the ceremony for his iconic rival, his spirit lived on through homage and fan dedication, highlighting the lasting impact of such legendary rivalries on both the wrestling community and the fans who cherish them.
Shinsuke Nakamura said he felt he did everything possible to be able to face Hiroshi Tanahashi one last time.
"I believe I did everything I could… but that it didn’t happen, well, maybe it was because I had other missions to fulfill. That’s the only way to see it. In its own… pic.twitter.com/s9wNgExILQ
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) January 5, 2026
