NJPW Legend To Hang Up His Boots In 2026
Following a match against Hiroshi Tanahashi, NJPW legend Tiger Mask IV has announced he will retire from professional wrestling in July 2026.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is a Japanese professional wrestling promotion founded by Antonio Inoki on January 13, 1972. Based in Tokyo, NJPW quickly became one of the most influential wrestling organizations in Japan. It introduced a strong style approach, blending martial arts techniques with traditional wrestling.
In 2005, Yuke’s, a video game developer, acquired a controlling interest in NJPW. However, the company struggled with financial and creative issues during this period. In 2012, Bushiroad, a Japanese card game company, purchased NJPW and revitalized its operations. As a result, NJPW experienced significant growth both domestically and internationally.
NJPW established a reputation for producing top-tier wrestling matches and cultivating global stars. Wrestlers like Hiroshi Tanahashi, Kazuchika Okada, and Shinsuke Nakamura rose to prominence under its banner. Moreover, foreign talents such as Kenny Omega, AJ Styles, and Will Ospreay enhanced NJPW’s international appeal.
In recent years, NJPW expanded beyond Japan. It launched NJPW World, its streaming service, and organized events in the United States and Europe. Furthermore, partnerships with companies like AEW and Impact Wrestling strengthened NJPW’s global presence.
Following a match against Hiroshi Tanahashi, NJPW legend Tiger Mask IV has announced he will retire from professional wrestling in July 2026.
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