Following WWE’s recent live event tour in Japan, Shinsuke Nakamura shared a reflective message on social media, contemplating his own future in professional wrestling and hinting that retirement might not be too far away for him. The comments came after an emotional weekend that saw AJ Styles potentially wrestle his final match in Japan.
Japan’s Special Significance
Nakamura began his post on X by expressing the unique importance of Japan in the world of wrestling. “What a special place Japan is. especially for those of us who wrestle,” he wrote. He referenced the recent send-off for AJ Styles, noting the sentiment Styles expressed about performing there. “As AJ said, it’s a place worthy of giving everything you’ve got. Of course, that’s true anywhere in the world… but there’s something sacred here. I don’t know if it’s because I’m Japanese, but I believe the wrestlers and fans who shared this space all felt the same. Maybe,” Nakamura reflected.
Contemplating Retirement
With John Cena walking away at the end of this year and AJ Styles planning to retire next year, it prompted Nakamura to consider his own career timeline. “He did too — John Cena, AJ — they’ve all chosen to step away from the ring. It reminds me that my own time might not be far off,” Nakamura admitted.
Still Fighting for Today
Despite acknowledging the possibility of retirement, Nakamura noted that he still has goals he wants to achieve and continues to fight in the present. “But I still have things I must do. I’m still struggling, still fighting, not knowing what tomorrow will bring,” he wrote. He concluded his message with a focus on living in the moment: “All I can do is live this day with everything I have. Thank you. If only… one more time…”.
What a special place Japan is. especially for those of us who wrestle.
As AJ said, it’s a place worthy of giving everything you’ve got. Of course, that’s true anywhere in the world… but there’s something sacred here. I don’t know if it’s because I’m Japanese, but I believe the…
— Shinsuke Nakamura (@ShinsukeN) October 18, 2025
