New Japan Pro-Wrestling held a press conference on May 11 at its offices, where Hiroyoshi Tenzan, who had been sidelined due to injury, officially announced his retirement from active competition. His final match will take place on Saturday, August 15, during the G1 Climax 36 event at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo.
“Tenzan has been absent due to ongoing back and knee injuries,” said New Japan President Hiroshi Tanahashi. “He underwent rehabilitation with the goal of returning, but he informed us that continuing as an active wrestler would be difficult, and the company has accepted his retirement. His retirement match will be held on August 15 at Ryogoku Kokugikan. After retiring, he will remain with New Japan Pro-Wrestling and continue his entertainment activities.”
“As President Tanahashi just announced, I, Hiroyoshi Tenzan, have decided to retire from active wrestling on August 15, 2026, marking 35 years as a pro wrestler,” Tenzan said. “Whether 35 years is long or short, I’m not sure, but I’ve made this decision myself. I’m truly grateful for all the support, guidance, and help I’ve received from so many people. When I joined as a rookie knowing nothing, making it this far feels like a miracle. Becoming a wrestler itself was a miracle for me. I’m glad I became a pro wrestler. Even though I’m retiring, I still want to contribute to New Japan in any way I can. Thank you, President.”
Asked about the timing and reason for deciding to retire while still aiming for a comeback, Tenzan explained: “During contract discussions with the company, I had a lot of internal conflict. As a pro wrestler, I felt I had to show a minimum level of performance in the ring for fans who pay good money. There came a time when I lost confidence in that. I struggled with thoughts like ‘Is this okay?’ But I realized I had to make it clear. Over the past few months, I’ve thought a lot. Now I want to prepare my body properly so I can have a solid final match.”
When asked if he intends to actually compete in his retirement match, Tenzan replied: “Yes, I’d like to have a match—even if it’s an exhibition, even if it’s just five or ten minutes. I’m still thinking about who my opponent will be. Just now I thought: President Tanahashi retired before me, and I was resting during his retirement road. I wished I could have had a match with him. Mr. President, won’t you come out of retirement?”
Tanahashi laughed and said, “Whoa, that’s too soon! In the 2004 G1 Climax final, Tenzan really got me.” Tenzan recalled, “That match still stands out to me. That was 23 years ago, right?” Tanahashi added, “The three musketeers—Shinsuke Nakamura, Katsuyori Shibata, and myself—were all defeated by you. You were strong.”
“When you came back for your final run, I thought, ‘I can’t lose here!’ But we haven’t faced each other since then. Want to do it?” Tenzan asked. Tanahashi simply chuckled. Tenzan continued, “At any rate, I want to prepare my body so I can close things out properly. I’ll announce more details later.”
Regarding his final stage being the first day of the G1 Climax 36 two-night stand at Ryogoku Kokugikan, a venue with deep personal significance, Tenzan said: “Ryogoku Kokugikan has been a special place for me, with both great and terrible memories. I want to show a fiery fight there during the G1.”
Asked about his best memories and regrets, Tenzan reflected: “There are so many memories. I joined in March 1990, but I ran away on the second day. I came back on May 11, which happens to be today’s date—I thought, ‘That’s the same!’ Coincidence? I think I re-entered on May 11. Over those 35 years, there were plenty of tough times, especially as a rookie. The late Shinya Hashimoto and Jushin Thunder Liger were incredible. The era of Riki Choshu and Tatsumi Fujinami was fierce too. I entered as a rookie who knew nothing, experienced so much, went overseas to train, changed my name to Hiroyoshi Tenzan. The best memories are winning championships and my first G1 victory—the fans’ passionate cheers were incredible. Ryogoku was the most comfortable arena for me. I really want one more match there, one last time.”
On unfinished business: “Maybe there are things I haven’t done, but I’ve decided this. I don’t want to cling to it. I’ve done all I can. As a pro wrestler, I think I’ve given everything.”
President Tanahashi was asked about Tenzan’s role after retirement. “Tenzan has great impact. I expect him to continue promoting New Japan through entertainment, and to share his mindset and advice with younger wrestlers. He can offer unique insights from his experience.”
Regarding his longtime partner Masahiro Chono, Tenzan said: “I haven’t contacted him yet. He’s like a teacher to me—I can’t talk about my career without mentioning him. I want to greet him. I hope he’s doing well. I’d love to have him as a guest—maybe even revive our Tag Team?”
On his family’s reaction: “My family has always supported me. We had many arguments at home, but I worked and fought not just for myself but for them. I focused on recovering from injury. I couldn’t have made it here without them. I really