Hiroshi Tanahashi Reflects on Jealousy Towards Kenny Omega

Hiroshi Tanahashi, an eight-time IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, recently opened up about his feelings of jealousy towards Kenny Omega when the latter first joined New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). Omega made his debut in NJPW in late 2014 as part of the Bullet Club, quickly establishing himself as a significant competitor in the wrestling world.

The rivalry between Tanahashi and Omega became legendary, characterized by their distinct wrestling styles and philosophies. Their feud reached its pinnacle at Wrestle Kingdom 13 in January 2019, where they faced off for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. In a fiercely contested match, Tanahashi emerged victorious, solidifying his status in the sport.

As he approaches his retirement, Tanahashi is scheduled to compete at Wrestle Kingdom 20, set to take place at the Tokyo Dome in Japan on January 4, 2026. In anticipation of this milestone event, he has been engaging in a series of interviews with fellow wrestlers for NJPW World.

During a recent conversation with Omega, Tanahashi candidly expressed his initial jealousy over Omega’s athleticism and appearance. He remarked, “I was a little jealous of you—of your athleticism and your looks. You had it all together. But from that first impression I had, I never imagined that years later, we would be in the Tokyo Dome main event. Life is crazy.”

The acknowledgment of jealousy highlights the competitive nature of professional wrestling, where athletes often grapple not only with opponents but also with their own insecurities. Tanahashi’s comments reflect a deeper understanding and respect for Omega’s contributions to the sport since his arrival.

As Tanahashi prepares for his last match, fans eagerly await the announcement of his final opponent, which remains undisclosed. The upcoming event promises to be a significant occasion, marking the end of an era for one of wrestling’s most iconic figures.