Kazuchika Okada Reflects on Retiring Hiroshi Tanahashi
Kazuchika Okada – Reflects on Retiring Hiroshi Tanahashi. The wrestling world is still reeling from the emotional fallout of Wrestle Kingdom 20, but it was the words of the winner that truly captured the gravity of the evening. After defeating his greatest rival in the main event, current AEW star Kazuchika Okada addressed the media to discuss the immense honor of being the final opponent in the storied career of Hiroshi Tanahashi. While the match was a physical war, the post-show press conference revealed a side of the “Rainmaker” rarely seen by the public.
For the community at AEWTalkDown.com, Okada’s return to a New Japan ring was a reminder of why he is considered one of the best in the world. However, instead of gloating over his victory, Okada used his platform to redirect all praise toward the man he had just pinned. His comments have sparked massive conversation across social media regarding the future of the NJPW and AEW partnership.
Okada on the Magnitude of the Tokyo Dome Sell-Out
During the press conference, Kazuchika Okada was visibly moved by the atmosphere of the evening. He noted that the capacity crowd in the Tokyo Dome was a direct result of Tanahashi’s 26 years of sacrifice and leadership. Okada admitted that filling such a legendary venue is a feat few can achieve, and he questioned if his own eventual retirement would carry the same weight.
”Once again, I was reminded of how great Hiroshi Tanahashi really is,” Okada stated to the assembled media. “This sold out Tokyo Dome exists because of what Tanahashi has done over 26 years. Truly impressive. Amazing.” This humble admission from one of AEW’s most confident stars highlights the deep-rooted respect that exists between the two icons, despite their decade of on-screen animosity.
A Surprising Retirement Joke and Gracious Farewell
In a moment that briefly sent shockwaves through the room, Kazuchika Okada joked that the match was so perfect he might as well retire alongside his mentor. While clearly a lighthearted comment, it underscored how much the match meant to him personally. Okada expressed profound gratitude for being able to step back into a New Japan ring for this specific occasion, bridging the gap between his past in Japan and his current home in AEW.
The “Rainmaker” didn’t stop at praising Tanahashi; he also made a point to promote the talent roster in All Elite Wrestling. He urged the Japanese audience to continue following his journey across the Pacific, noting that the spirit of great wrestling transcends promotional boundaries. “Please keep watching AEW as well,” Okada urged the fans. “There are many incredible wrestlers there.”
The Bridge Between AEW and President Tanahashi
Okada’s comments serve as a powerful endorsement for the ongoing collaboration between the two promotions. With Hiroshi Tanahashi now transitioning into his role as NJPW President, the synergy between Okada’s platform in the West and Tanahashi’s leadership in the East is stronger than ever. Fans can expect this mutual respect to lead to even more high-profile crossover matches and “Forbidden Door” opportunities.
As the dust settles on Wrestle Kingdom 20, the message from the “Rainmaker” is clear: the industry is in good hands. Okada’s victory wasn’t just about winning a match; it was about accepting the torch from a man who carried Japanese wrestling on his back for over two decades. The future of global wrestling looks bright with stars like Okada leading the charge.
Stay Updated with AEW TalkDown
Kazuchika Okada’s heartfelt tribute to Hiroshi Tanahashi is a must-see moment for any true wrestling fan. As we continue to cover the fallout from this historic night, make sure you don’t miss our exclusive interviews and deep-dive editorials on what’s next for the “Rainmaker” in AEW.
For more breaking news, match analysis, and the latest from the world of professional wrestling, visit AEWTalkDown.com. Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel at @AEWTalkDownEng for the full video of Okada’s press conference and our reactions to this unforgettable retirement!
