Tomoaki Honma Announces NJPW Retirement, Plans Final Match in Hometown in 2027

Tomoaki Honma, one of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s most beloved figures, announced his retirement from professional wrestling on Saturday, July 4, addressing fans during a non-televised NJPW event in Yamagata — his hometown.

Speaking to the crowd before the show and then again backstage, Honma made clear that the decision was not made lightly. Persistent concerns about his neck ultimately pushed him toward stepping away from the ring. It was a neck injury that nearly ended everything for Honma back in 2017, when a devastating spinal injury temporarily left him paralyzed. Recent medical evaluations convinced him that continuing to compete was no longer a responsible option.

In his own words, Honma did not shy away from the weight of the moment. “I agonized over this endlessly. I’ve decided to retire. I’ve been able to do what I love, pro wrestling, for 30 years, and I’m happy about that, but I’ve agonized over it and made up my mind. I’m retiring.”

Despite the announcement, Honma’s in-ring career is not over just yet. He expressed a desire to get his body into better shape over the coming months with the goal of competing in a proper retirement match in Yamagata next year — giving fans in his hometown a fitting sendoff.

Honma broke into professional wrestling in 1997 with Big Japan Pro Wrestling before finding a second home in NJPW, where he became a genuine crowd favourite. Teaming with Togi Makabe, he captured the IWGP Tag Team Championship and claimed the World Tag League in both 2015 and 2016.

The retirement news comes during a busy stretch for NJPW. The promotion is set to hold events at Korakuen Hall on Monday and Tuesday, with Tuesday’s card carrying additional emotional weight as Tiger Mask competes in his own retirement event. NJPW then heads stateside for the start of G1 Climax 36, which is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, at NOW Arena outside Chicago.

For a wrestler who fought back from paralysis just to step inside a ring again, Honma’s legacy in New Japan is one of resilience above all else. Fans will have one more chance to say goodbye — whenever that Yamagata farewell match comes to pass.