Episode 59: Bi-weekly Osaka

April 15, 2026

Last Friday, I was in Osaka for work. I’ve been appointed as a bi-weekly Friday regular for Asahi Broadcasting's afternoon news program, "Okaeri," and it was my very first appearance.

Now, everyone... just imagine. Tanahashi as a news commentator. Can he handle it? I have a feeling most of you are a bit worried. To be honest, I am too!

When I looked up the definition of a "commentator," it said: "An expert or media personality who provides original commentary and insights on current events, such as politics, society, and sports, on news or information programs."

O-o-original... c-c-commentary... It requires quick thinking and mental agility. And on top of that... clear pronunciation.

I’m naturally anxious about whether I’m up to the task, but I’ve decided to look at it this way: "It's time to evolve."

By combining my experience as a pro wrestler, my time as President, and my daily learnings, maybe Tanahashi will finally reach his "Final Form"...

I feel a mix of nervousness and excitement, and I’m truly grateful for this wonderful opportunity.

We have the Osaka-jo Hall event coming up in June. I’m secretly plotting to appear on the show wearing the event T-shirt to do some undercover promotion (villainous face).

Back in the 2000s, I used to do something I called "Zenryoku Promotion" (All-Out Promotion) to advertise our shows. I did it because I believed that if I became more famous, more people would come to watch pro wrestling.

While you can't say that "fame = drawing power" 100% of the time, I figured it’s much easier to invite someone to their first wrestling match if there’s a wrestler they actually recognize.

Let’s imagine a conversation:

"There's an NJPW show coming up, want to go see it together?"

"Eh... pro wrestling? Doesn't it look painful?"

"Not at all, it's really fun!"

"Who's in it?"

"Lots of famous wrestlers!"

"Oh? Like who?"

...Something like that.

That said, there’s no point in my fame rising if I’m already retired. Well, it’s not pointless, but I’m hoping for a secondary ripple effect.

First, I need to deliver solid insights as a commentator. If I do well, my reputation goes up, and searches for "Tanahashi" will increase. Eventually, those people will find their way to New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

Even though it’s happening after my retirement, I’ve been given a truly great opportunity.

Please look forward to "Commentator Tanahashi's" pronunciation... I mean, his performance!