Who Has Been Discussed To Be Hiroshi Tanahashi's Final Opponent Revealed

Hiroshi Tanahashi's illustrious pro wrestling career will come to an end at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026, but the NJPW President's final opponent has yet to be revealed. A decision isn't too far away, though.

According to Fightful Select, the match wasn't officially signed as of November 6, but the candidates to face Tanahashi in his final bow has been narrowed down to three possibilities. A decision will be made in the "next week or so" and NJPW plan to hold a press conference to officially reveal the plans.

Shinsuke Nakamura - who has been a part of WWE since 2016 - was discussed within New Japan as a possible final opponent for Tanahashi but this scenario was considered a pipe dream within NJPW to the point that Nakamura is not expected to be the opponent. Nakamura and Tanahashi were longtime rivals in New Japan and were two of the New Three Musketeers with Katsuyori Shibata.

Two names that have also been considered to be Tanahashi's final opponent are Kazuchika Okada and Kenny Omega. Okada is one of Tanahashi's most legendary rivals, while Tanahashi and Omega have had memorable matches, including in the main event of Wrestle Kingdom 13.