Shinsuke Nakamura to Support Rei Tsuruya in UFC 303 Debut
Renowned Japanese WWE luminary Shinsuke Nakamura is poised to stand in the corner of compatriot Rei Tsuruya during his highly anticipated bout against Carlos Hernandez at UFC 303 this Saturday in Las Vegas. Nakamura, himself a former mixed martial artist, recently announced his support for the young fighter on X, igniting a flurry of excitement among fans.
“Taking on the world at #UFC @ufc! Rally behind Rei Tsuruya @mma_rei,” Nakamura enthused. “Shinsuke Nakamura becomes second for Rei Tsuruya in UFC debut, internet goes crazy with comments like ‘Yaaaaaw!’ and ‘Seriously?'”
WWE representatives corroborated this news with ESPN on Thursday.
While Nakamura is widely celebrated for his WWE accolades—including titles as Intercontinental, United States, and NXT champion—his storied career also features three reigns as IWGP heavyweight champion during his tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Between 2002 and 2004, Nakamura competed in MMA, amassing a commendable record of 3-1-1, with all victories secured via submission. His wrestling moniker, “King of Strong Style,” reflects his deep-rooted influence from MMA.
Tsuruya, a prodigious flyweight talent, secured his UFC contract through Road to UFC 2 in February, triumphing over Jiniushiyue with a TKO. Boasting an unblemished 9-0 record, with eight of those victories achieved through finishes, the 22-year-old is set to make a formidable entrance into the UFC. His opponent, Hernandez, comes with a 9-3 record and a 2-2 standing within the UFC.
“I am exhilarated to partake in the monumental UFC 303 event this weekend,” Nakamura conveyed to ESPN. “It is an honor to be in Tsuruya Rei’s corner. MMA remains a fervent passion of mine, and being part of Rei’s UFC debut is a significant moment.”
Given the UFC and WWE’s unified operations under the TKO Group banner, such crossover endeavors are to be expected. This July, WWE will embark on its first tour of Japan in five years, the WWE Supershow Summer Tour, featuring three live events. The inaugural show is slated for July 25 at Edion Arena in Osaka, followed by two performances on July 26 and July 27 at Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena in Tokyo. Nakamura is set to appear alongside Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre, and other notable wrestlers.