Shinsuke Nakamura Says Impending Retirements Of AJ Styles And John Cena Are A Reminder His Time Might Not Be Far Off

At the age of 45, Shinsuke Nakamura is closer to the end of his in-ring career than the beginning, and he is wrestling with retirement thoughts.

After competing at WWE live events in Tokyo the past two days, Nakamura reflected on his return to Japan and what lies ahead.

He posted the following message on social media:

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 wrestlers and fans who shared this space all felt the same. Maybe.

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.
But I still have things I must do. I’m still struggling, still fighting, not knowing what tomorrow will bring.
All I can do is live this day with everything I have.

Thank you.

If only… one more time…

Cena is set to have his retirement match on December 13, while Styles has said he will retire in 2026.

Nakamura made his debut in 2002, competing for NJPW until joining WWE in 2016.