Update On Hiroshi Tanahashi's NJPW Future

NJPW's Ace provides a big update on his future.

by Andy H Murray
Hiroshi Tanahashi
NJPW

Hiroshi Tanahashi has signed a new contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling.

The Ace revealed as much on social media earlier today, tweeting the following:-

This translates as:-

We have renewed the player contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. I will do my best. #njpw

NJPW is yet to comment on Tanahashi's renewal, the terms of which have not been disclosed.

Advertisement

Thus continues Tanahashi's 24-year tenure with the market-leading puroresu group, which began when he entered the NJPW Dojo in February 1998. Graduating the following October, he, alongside Shinsuke Nakamura and Katsuyori Shibata, were known as the 'Three Musketeers' - a trio of rookies earmarked as the future of the company.

While Shibata ended up leaving NJPW to embark on an MMA career, eventually returning, Nakamura and specifically Tanahashi played pivotal roles in turning the company around from its Inokiism-induced down period. Becoming one of the most important wrestlers in NJPW's history, he is credited with carrying the promotion through some of its darkest hours and towards its most prosperous spell, becoming IWGP Heavyweight Champion eight times along the way.

Advertisement

Tanahashi currently reigns as the IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion, having taken the title from KENTA at Wrestle Kingdom 16.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.