JPN
On April 22nd, Emma Tamashima, the winner of "Rookie of Stardom 2026," received some valuable advice from Hiroshi Tanahashi, president of New Japan Pro-Wrestling
In preparation for her challenge against Future of Stardom Champion Ranna Yagami at the April 26 Yokohama Arena event, she visited the New Japan Pro-Wrestling office in Nakano Ward, Tokyo. With a nervous expression, she met with President Tanahashi
The main purpose of this visit was to see the Sling Blade that Tanahashi uses in his matches. It is known as a move that President Tanahashi developed and used frequently during his active career
Shima, who revealed that he had watched and studied videos of President Tanahashi's matches many times in order to master the technique, asked, "I'm really sorry to ask this, but when I compare my technique with Mr. Tanahashi's, the height is completely different. Mine is very low, while Mr. Tanahashi moves dynamically and widely... If you don't mind, could you tell me the key points or what you keep in mind?"
Then President Tanahashi said, "The Sling Blade is a move that can inflict damage when it connects, and the feeling of floating while performing it is incredibly satisfying. What's more, the good thing about that move is that you can perform it even if you're running, you can use it to counter when your opponent charges in, and if you land it well, it can be a finishing move." He then added, "I want you to train your sprinting ability. Reach top speed in the first or second step. And the key point is your left hand." He explained this carefully with gestures and hand movements
With his eyes shining, Tanahashi encouraged Shima, saying, "Use it carefully, and save it for crucial moments. You can also use it as much as I used to (laughs). Make the Sling Blade your signature move, something that makes people go 'Wow!' when they see it."
At the April 26 Yokohama Arena event, Shima will challenge Future Champion Yagami as the Rookie of the Year. President Tanahashi, who expressed his expectations by saying, "I want him to win (the belt)," emphasized the importance of "mind, technique, and body," and the importance of having an ultimate goal as a professional wrestler. He also gave advice on how to cope with nervousness before a match
"One of my favorite sayings is, 'Know yourself and know your opponent, and you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.' I think if you properly analyze yourself, know your strengths and weaknesses, and then thoroughly study your opponent by watching videos and such, you'll be fine."
Moreover, President Tanahashi promised to visit the venue on the day of the Yokohama Arena show. He sent enthusiastic encouragement, saying, "I'm looking forward to seeing when the Sling Blade will appear. It's my main event, so do your best!"
With a look of overwhelming emotion, Tanahashi declared firmly, "I will definitely use the Sling Blade. I will bring it out in perfect condition!" He continued, "This is a valuable opportunity, and it has really motivated me. I've always aimed for the Future title, so I will definitely win and not lose in spirit, and I will show Tanahashi a cool performance!"