10 WWE Stars And Their New Japan Equivalents
2. John Cena And Hiroshi Tanahashi
Sometimes, one performer becomes so valuable to a company that he becomes the group's "ace" - he's the best performer and most recognisable talent on the roster, so the promotion begins to revolve around him. Both John Cena and Hiroshi Tanahashi know what that's like, having lived the life for a decade.
Both men won their first world championships in the mid-2000s (Cena in 2005, Tanahashi in 2006), both would go on to set records with the titles (Cena has claimed 12 WWE Championships, Tanahashi has seven IWGP Heavyweight Championships), and both would define what in-ring competition meant in the 21st century.
Despite repeated (and unfounded) criticism of Cena's ability, he, like Tanahashi, has racked up more classic main events than just about anybody in the sport.
Both have also finally ceded their positions - Cena to Roman Reigns, and Tanahashi to Kazuchika Okada.
What the future holds for both Cena and Tanahashi is uncertain. Both will be 40 within the next year, and Tanahashi, especially, is in questionable physical condition. Still, despite relinquishing the title of "ace," both Cena and Tanahashi are the faces of their respective promotions, and their value to the sport is beyond measure.
No matter where their paths take them, hopefully health and honour follow.