The self-proclaimed “Master of the Cetury”, Tanahashi embodies what it means to be the Ace of New Japan Pro Wrestling. After debuting for NJPW in October of 1999 he has the highest record of IWGP Heavyweight titles (8 times). That achievment goes alongside a Grand Slam, with Tanahashi one of precious few to win the IWGP heavyweight, Intercontinental, Tag, US and NEVER Openweight Championships, as well as 3 G1 Climaxes.  

After a legendary run, Tanahashi’s results were less consistent in the 2020s, but his performances were always on point, and the respect earned over 23 years undeniable. On January 4 2023, Wrestle Kingdom 17 saw him team with his former mentor Keiji Muto and future prospect Shota Umino for Muto’s final NJPW match, before he turned his sights to a long established rival in KENTA at New Beginning in Osaka.