The beginning of a new year is usually a fitting time to focus on goals, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling star Hiroshi Tanahashi recently shared his objectives for the short-term future and beyond.
In an interview with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Tanahashi expressed his hope that moving forward, NJPW can continue to grow in the buzzing wrestling world. The promotion, like many others, has been hampered by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but “The Ace” stated that he hopes NJPW can move beyond it. Personally, he also stated that he wants to win the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship.
“For New Japan at large, I want us to put COVID in the rearview mirror and start growing again,” said Tanahashi. “For me personally, of course I want to be IWGP world heavyweight champion.”
Gold is clearly at the top of Tanahashi’s list of priorities, as he made it clear that he intends to regain the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship. He’ll challenge KENTA for the gold at Wrestle Kingdom 16 Night Two, and if he wins, Tanahashi aims to take the title back to the United States.
“I want to take the IWGP U.S. heavyweight championship back,” said Tanahashi. “Nothing’s set in stone yet, but my goal is to bring the belt back to the states.”
In a more general sense, Tanahashi expressed his goal to be the best, but he’s focused on earning that honor.
“As long as I am still active, I want to be at the very top of this business,” said Tanahashi. “But first I have to produce results and earn that spot.”
Time will tell what the future holds for Tanahashi and NJPW, but it’s clear that “The Ace” has high hopes for 2022.
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