Former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Tetsuya Naito has provided clarity about his health status and career plans following his NJPW departure. The wrestling star confirmed he will undergo eye surgery on May 7 to address lingering vision issues from his 2024 diagnosis of bilateral superior oblique muscle paralysis.
In an interview with Tokyo Sports, Naito dismissed retirement speculation:
Some people may be under the wrong impression, but I’m not retiring or anything like that. First of all, I want to take the time to maintain my body, and then I want to move on to the next stage.
Naito also revealed plans for stem cell treatment on his chronically injured right knee following the eye operation. While acknowledging complete recovery is impossible, he expects significant pain reduction and mobility improvement. These medical procedures come after his final advertised NJPW match at Wrestling Dontaku on May 4.
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The 41-year-old wrestler remains noncommittal about his next promotion, stating he’s uncertain when and where he’ll return to action. Naito’s health updates suggest an extended recovery period before fans see the LIJ leader back in the ring, though he emphasized his determination to continue wrestling after treatments conclude.
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