Hiroshi Tanahashi Makes Surprise Claim On In-Ring Future

Hiroshi Tanahashi has revealed what his in-ring future holds after taking up a new corporate position with New Japan Pro Wrestling.

Hiroshi Tanahashi has been made NJPW President as the company looks to rebuild. That mission has become even more pressing now that Kazuchika Okada has announced he is leaving the company with his future plans still unknown.

Before Okada departs, however, he will meet Tanahashi in the ring one last time at The New Beginning In Osaka on February 11th in what is sure to be an emotional occasion. While Okada will continue his in-ring career elsewhere, the future of Tanahashi seems less clear.

Hiroshi Tanahashi Sets Sights On IWGP Title

Speaking to Yahoo Japan, Tanahashi explained that he wants to win the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship once again and indicates that his in-ring days are far from done:

The fighting spirit disappears when I no longer aim to be the best. If I feel like I can’t reach it or can’t do it anymore, I’ll retire immediately.

I want to aim for the throne no matter what so that people won’t think, ‘No, I don’t get tired (lol). I’ll bring my body to its peak once again.

Tanahashi is the current NJPW World Television Champion and will put that gold on the line when he faces Matt Riddle at The New Beginning In Sapporo on the 23rd of February.