AJ Styles Praises Hiroshi Tanahashi, ‘I’m Honored To Say I Wrestled Him’

Hiroshi Tanahashi is set to retire on January 4, 2026 at Wrestle Kingdom 20.

Tanahashi has wrestled a number of legends throughout his career, including AJ Styles on a number of occasions.

Speaking to ABEMA, Styles was asked about Tanahashi’s upcoming retirement.

“Oh, Tanahashi is going to retire in January? Oh wow. I mean, it’s good. I mean, right? You want to be able to retire. He’s had an unbelievable career. One of the best I’ve ever wrestled, been in the ring with. Such a great competitor. He has definitely earned the right to retire. I’m honored to be able to say that I’ve wrestled him,” said Styles.

AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi last met in 2015 as part of the G1 Climax tournament.

Elsewhere during the interview, Styles commented on getting to face John Cena one last time. You can find his full comments here.

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