Shinsuke Nakamura to return as a hitman for 9-time champion? Exploring ideal comeback scenario

Shinsuke Nakamura's name is on everyone's lips right now. Rumors suggest he could make an appearance on this week's SmackDown, but it will be The King of Strong Style who will be looking to make an impression. Given the importance of the situation, even the WWE Universe will be expecting something big from Nakamura. So, could he deliver and return as a hitman for a nine-time champion?

The answer to that question is quite possibly "Yes!" Shinsuke Nakamura was last seen on TV on the April 22, 2024, episode of RAW, where he suffered a loss at the hands of Sheamus. He was later drafted to SmackDown. Considering it's been half a year since we've seen the Japanese star, WWE will want to do something big with his return. With that in mind, he could work with nine-time champion Kevin Owens and serve as his 'hitman' this Friday.

The Prizefighter is a one-time Universal Champion, a three-time US Champion, a two-time Intercontinental Champion, a one-time NXT Champion, and a two-time tag team champion.

Kevin Owens is in a sticky situation right now on SmackDown. Not only has he turned on Cody Rhodes, but he has also lost the support of his former tag team partner, Randy Orton. Things aren't going his way, and they will only get worse, considering The Viper has promised to deal with him this week.

This is where Shinsuke Nakamura could come in and assist The Prizefighter in dealing with The Apex Predator. Of course, this would be a one-time deal, but his assistance could prove useful elsewhere too. After all, Nakamura has had beef with The American Nightmare in the past and could help KO deal with a 'common enemy.' But at the end of the day, this is nothing more than speculation. We will just have to wait and see how things unfold.

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Shinsuke Nakamura is scheduled to return to a major Japanese promotion

Earlier, it was mentioned that Shinsuke Nakamura was currently under contract with WWE but had not been visible for some time. Despite this, he is still active in the pro wrestling world. When New Year's Day comes around, Nakamura, the former Men's Royal Rumble winner, will be back in a prominent Japanese promotion, representing WWE.

The promotion is one that recently had AJ Styles grace them with his presence, Pro Wrestling NOAH. Nakamura worked with the company in January 2023 as well, where he faced off against The Great Muta. Well, it seems NOAH fans can look forward to seeing him again, as he has been announced for Nippon Budokan on New Year's Day.

As things stand, there has been no announcement regarding his opponent. Regardless, it is sure to be a mind-blowing event. Fans will be watching eagerly and likely cannot wait to see what the 44-year-old has in store for them.