Shinsuke Nakamura has opened up about his future in wrestling and admitted that retirement may not be too far away.
After appearing at AJ Styles’ farewell event in Japan, the former WWE Intercontinental Champion revealed that seeing Styles and John Cena nearing the end of their careers made him reflect on his own timeline. In an interview with Tokyo Sports, Nakamura spoke honestly about how long he expects to keep wrestling.
“Fortunately, I haven’t had many injuries, so it’s not like I have to retire right now. But nothing lasts forever. If you ask me about the next 10 years, I have my doubts, but if you ask me about five years, maybe. You never know what tomorrow brings, so I just have to do what I can now.”
Nakamura’s comments come as WWE continues its global expansion and TKO Group Holdings relies on its international stars to draw worldwide audiences. But even with a decorated career behind him, Nakamura is realistic about the physical and emotional demands that come with professional wrestling.
During WWE’s house shows in Japan, Nakamura paid tribute to Hiroshi Tanahashi by using his iconic catchphrase to close out the first night of the event. Reflecting on that moment, Nakamura said it was special to support AJ Styles during his farewell while also acknowledging his own journey.
“On the first day, I did what I needed to do and said what I needed to say. On the second day, I’m glad I could support AJ’s special feelings as a friend and a rival. (AJ) isn’t retiring today or tomorrow, though.”
Even as he considers retirement, Nakamura made it clear he’s still driven by one final goal before he walks away: becoming WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
“I believe in it, so I keep going. That’s the World Heavyweight Championship. I just want to win that. I think that’s the one thing that Japanese wrestlers, especially men, have yet to break through on this American stage. I hope I can leave some kind of path, or hope, for the next generation of Japanese and Asian wrestlers.”
As for what comes next, Fightful Select reports that NJPW internally discussed the idea of Nakamura facing Hiroshi Tanahashi in his final match at Wrestle Kingdom 20 in January 2026, though it’s viewed as a “pipe dream” at this stage.
Whether or not that match happens, Nakamura’s comments make it clear he’s starting to think about the end—and how he wants to finish his story.
Do you think Shinsuke Nakamura should retire soon, or does he have one more big run left in him? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
