Tenzan smiled as he faced the media. (Photo by Tomonari Sasaki)
Hiroyoshi Tenzan (55), a veteran of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, held a press conference in Tokyo on July 11 and announced his retirement from active competition. He had been undergoing rehabilitation for injuries to his back and knees but ultimately concluded that continuing his career would be too difficult. Tenzan is scheduled to have his farewell match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan on August 15. After retirement, he will remain with New Japan and pursue entertainment activities. Known for his signature blond mohawk and intimidating look, Tenzan has been a beloved figure in the ring since his debut in January 1991, marking 35 years with the promotion.
Alongside contemporaries Satoshi Kojima (55), Yuji Nagata (58), and Manabu Nakanishi (59), Tenzan was part of the “Third Generation” that defined an era. His tag team with Kojima, known as “TenKoji,” became legendary in pro wrestling history. At the retirement press conference, Tenzan stated with a clear expression: “As I complete 35 years as a pro wrestler, I decided to retire on August 15. I don’t know if it feels long or short, but I’ve decided to step away here. I was supported by so many people—given help and guidance—and I’m grateful. Coming from being a rookie who knew nothing about wrestling until now feels nearly miraculous. For me, becoming a pro wrestler was itself a kind of miracle, so I’m truly glad I became one. Even though I’m retiring, I want to do whatever I can to cooperate with New Japan as a company.”
Tenzan joined New Japan in March 1990 and ran away from the dormitory on his second day, but returned in May and made his debut in January 1991. After returning from overseas training in January 1995, he changed his ring name from his real name, Yamamoto, to “Hiroyoshi Tenzan.” He also moved through various heel units, including “The Army of Wolves,” “nWo Japan,” “TEAM 2000,” “CTU,” and “G・B・H,” teaming with stars such as Masahiro Chono and Yuji Nagata.
As a singles competitor, Tenzan captured the IWGP Heavyweight Championship three times and won the midsummer classic G1 Climax three times, helping lead New Japan through the 1990s and 2000s. He also remained a stalwart for the company during a period when many wrestlers left.
However, years of accumulated damage left him with chronic pain in his neck, knees, and back. Last May, he underwent surgery for ossification of the yellow ligament, a condition designated as a rare disease, and was sidelined from competition for over a year.
Explaining his decision to retire, Tenzan said: “During contract discussions with the company, I had various conflicts. There were times when I wasn’t confident I could show the minimum level required as a pro wrestler on the ring—what fans deserve for paying high ticket prices. I thought it might be too difficult to continue. I felt I had to make a clear decision. Over the past few months, I’ve thought about many things, and I want to prepare my condition properly for the retirement match. Even if it’s just an exhibition, even if it’s five or ten minutes, I’d be happy to have a match. I’m considering various opponents.”
Hiroyoshi Tenzan Profile: Born March 23, 1971, in Kyoto Prefecture. Real name: Hiroyoshi Yamamoto. Debuted in January 1991, changed ring name to Tenzan upon returning from overseas in January 1995. First G1 Climax victory in 2003, three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion. Signature moves include Mongolian Chop, TTD, Anaconda Vice, Moonsault Press. Height: 183 cm, Weight: 115 kg.