Kazuchika Okada Prepares for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s Retirement Match

Kazuchika Okada, a prominent star in the wrestling world, has recently commented on his upcoming match against rival Hiroshi Tanahashi, which will mark Tanahashi’s retirement. This significant event is scheduled for Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026, at the legendary Tokyo Dome. Okada made a surprise return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) last month to announce that he would be Tanahashi’s final opponent.

In an exclusive interview with NJPW1972.com, Okada shared his thoughts on Tanahashi’s impending retirement. “Hmm, I’m not really sure I have an answer to that. It doesn’t quite feel like he’s retiring,” Okada remarked. He added that he feels the reality of Tanahashi’s retirement will only hit him on the day of the match. Having spent much of his recent career in the United States, Okada indicated that he had not contemplated Tanahashi’s retirement until now.

He noted, “If I was in NJPW all this time, perhaps I might get a sense that retirement was looming, but I’ve been over in America; I never really gave it thought. I think it’ll be at the end of the year, when I’m finished with the AEW schedule, and next is the Tokyo Dome; that’s when I’ll be able to give it more thought.” Okada expressed a deep respect for Tanahashi, stating that his own journey in wrestling began with the veteran. He reflected, “Everything about The Rainmaker started with Tanahashi, so it makes sense to end Tanahashi’s career… Talking about it that way sounds a little self-centered (laughs), but in the end, I feel this is a repayment in a way.”

As the anticipation builds for this monumental match, Okada addressed how he plans to approach the retirement bout. He emphasized that while it is a retirement match, he views it similarly to any other contest. “Yes, it’s a retirement match, but—and I don’t mean this in a weird way—in the end, it is a normal match,” he explained. Okada believes each match stands alone, never to be replicated.

“I’m just thinking, ‘How best can I really hit him where it hurts?’” Okada’s comments reflect his competitive spirit and dedication to delivering an unforgettable performance. With both wrestlers having had a profound impact on NJPW, their clash at Wrestle Kingdom 20 is expected to be a poignant and thrilling conclusion to a storied rivalry.

As fans eagerly await this event, the wrestling community is reminded of the legacy that Hiroshi Tanahashi has built over his illustrious career. Okada’s reflections not only highlight the significance of the match but also underscore the respect and camaraderie that exists among these elite athletes.