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'{{distinguish|Shunsuke Nakamura}} {{Infobox professional wrestler | name = Shinsuke Nakamura | image = ROHShinsukeNakamura.jpg | caption = Nakamura in May 2015 | birthname = Shinsuke Nakamura | names = '''Shinsuke Nakamura'''<br />Nakamura<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cmll.com/02_resultados/super_viernes/super_viernes_cmll.htm|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5zCKjr5TK|title=Viernes 3 de Junio '11|archivedate=2011-06-04|accessdate=2011-06-04|work=[[Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre]]|language=Spanish}}</ref> | height={{convert|1.88|m|ftin|abbr=on}}<!-- In Japan they measure height in meters so that should be first. --><ref name=NJPW/><ref name=WWE>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/shinsukenakamura|title=Shinsuke Nakamura|accessdate=2016-04-01|work=[[WWE]]}}</ref> | weight = nameconvert|104|kg|lb|abbr=on}}<!-- In Japan they measure weight in kilograms so that should be first. --><ref name=NJPW/><ref name=WWE/> | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1980|2|24|mf=y}}<ref name=lucha underground /> | death_date = | birth_place = [[Kyōtango|Mineyama]], [[Kyoto Prefecture|Kyoto]], [[Japan]]<ref name=NJPW/><ref name=Purolove>{{cite web|url=http://www.purolove.com/njpw/profiles/shinsukenakamura.php|title=Purolove profile|accessdate=2009-12-09|work=Purolove.com}}</ref> | death_place = | resides = [[Orlando, Florida]], U.S.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/100867/nakamurawwe-update.html?p=1|title=Nakamura-WWE update|last=Johnson|first=Mike|date=2016-03-27|accessdate=2016-03-29|work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}</ref> | spouse = {{marriage|Harumi Maekawa|September 2007}} | billed = [[Kyoto, Japan]] | trainer = Inoki Dojo<ref name=Cage/><br />Kotetsu Yamamoto<ref name=Cage/><br />[[Osamu Kido]]<ref name=Cage/> | debut = August 29, 2002<ref name=NJPW/><ref name=PuroCentral/> | retired = }} {{nihongo|'''Shinsuke Nakamura'''|中邑 真輔|Nakamura Shinsuke|born February 24, 1980}}<ref name=NJPW>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/data/detail_profile.php?f=022|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20160130153243/http://www.njpw.co.jp/data/detail_profile.php?f=022|archivedate=2016-01-30|title=New Japan Pro Wrestling profile|accessdate=2010-12-24|language=Japanese|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]}}</ref><ref name=PuroCentral>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresucentral.com/nakamura.html|title=Puroresu Central profile|accessdate=2009-12-09|work=Puroresu Central}}</ref> is a [[Japan]]ese [[professional wrestler]] and former [[Mixed martial arts|mixed martial artist]], currently signed to [[WWE]], where he performs in its [[Farm team#Professional wrestling|developmental territory]], [[WWE NXT|NXT]]. He is best known for his work in [[New Japan Pro Wrestling]] (NJPW), where he is a former [[List of IWGP Heavyweight Champions|three-time]] [[IWGP Heavyweight Championship|IWGP Heavyweight Champion]], [[List of IWGP Intercontinental Champions|five-time]] [[IWGP Intercontinental Championship|IWGP Intercontinental Champion]], [[List of IWGP Tag Team Champions|one-time]] [[IWGP Tag Team Championship|IWGP Tag Team Champion]] and the winner of the [[G1 Climax#2011|2011 G1 Climax]], [[G1 Tag League#2006|2006 G1 Tag League]], and [[New Japan Cup#2014|2014 New Japan Cup]] tournaments. Nakamura is the youngest IWGP Heavyweight Champion in history, having won the title for the first time at the age of 23 years and 9 months.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2016/01/08/0008703883.shtml|script-title=ja:新日本・中邑、米ＷＷＥ移籍へ|date=2016-01-08|accessdate=2016-01-09|work=Daily Sports Online|publisher=[[Kobe Shimbun]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> In 2015, Nakamura was inducted into the [[Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame]]. ==Professional wrestling career== ===New Japan Pro Wrestling=== ====Super Rookie (2002–2005)==== Nakamura joined NJPW in March 2002 and quickly began making a name for himself as a bright prospect for the company.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Having earned the nickname "Super Rookie", Nakamura impressed both NJPW officials and fans with an excellent combination of strength, speed, and technical skill.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Alongside fellow rookies [[Hiroshi Tanahashi]] and [[Katsuyori Shibata]], Nakamura became known as one of the "new [[The Three Musketeers (professional wrestling)|Three Musketeers]]".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/japan/njpw-axs-tv-report-7-3-15-katsuyori-shibata-vs-hiroshi-tanahashi-152262|title=NJPW on AXS TV report 7-3-15: Katsuyori Shibata vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi|last=Rose|first=Bryan|date=2015-07-04|accessdate=2016-01-04|work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Nakamura also began training [[vale tudo]] and on December 31, 2002, he made his [[mixed martial arts]] debut in a match, where he was defeated by [[Daniel Gracie]] via submission to an armlock.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Nakamura's second MMA match took place on May 2, 2003, when he defeated [[Jan Nortje]] with a [[guillotine choke]].<ref name=PuroCentral/> He followed that up on September 13 with another submission victory over Shane Eitner in his third MMA match.<ref name=Sherdog>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/fightfinder/fightfinder.asp?fighterID=6361|title=Sherdog profile|accessdate=2009-12-09|work=Shordog}}</ref> On December 9, 2003, Nakamura defeated [[Hiroyoshi Tenzan]] for the [[IWGP Heavyweight Championship]], thus becoming the youngest wrestler in history to win the title.<ref name=PuroCentral/> On January 4, 2004, at [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestling World 2004|Wrestling World 2004]], Nakamura successfully defended the IWGP Heavyweight Championship against the [[NWF Heavyweight Champion]] [[Yoshihiro Takayama]] in a title unification match.<ref name=PuroCentral/> However, just a month later, Nakamura was forced to vacate the title due to an injury.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Upon his return, Nakamura received a shot at the title, now held by [[Bob Sapp]], but was defeated by the defending champion on May 3, 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresucentral.com/NJReview-Nexess04.html|title=New Japan Nexess|last=Wilson|first=Kevin|accessdate=2015-09-21|work=Puroresu Central}}</ref> Later that month, Nakamura competed in his to date last MMA match, defeating [[Alexey Ignashov]] with a forearm choke on May 22.<ref name=Sherdog/> On December 11, 2004, Nakamura and his tag team partner Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated [[Kensuke Sasaki]] and [[Minoru Suzuki]] in a decision match to win the [[IWGP Tag Team Championship]].<ref name=PuroCentral/> On January 4, 2005, at [[January 4 Dome Show#Toukon Festival: Wrestling World 2005|Toukon Festival: Wrestling World 2005]] Nakamura defeated his own tag team partner, Tanahashi, to win the [[IWGP U-30 Openweight Championship]].<ref name=PuroCentral/> During Nakamura's and Tanahashi tag team title reign, the two left for an excursion to [[Mexico]], where they feuded with [[Los Guerreros del Infierno]] and defended their titles against [[Rey Bucanero]] and [[Olímpico]].<ref name=PuroCentral/> A few weeks later, on October 30, 2005, they lost the titles to [[Cho-Ten]] ([[Masahiro Chono]] and Hiroyoshi Tenzan).<ref name=PuroCentral/> ====Excursion and return (2006–2009)==== Nakamura challenged [[Brock Lesnar]] for the [[IWGP Heavyweight Championship]] on January 4, 2006, at [[January 4 Dome Show#Toukon Shidou Chapter 1|Toukon Shidou Chapter 1]], but lost.<ref name=PuroCentral/> In March 2006, Nakamura announced that he would depart on a learning excursion in order to further improve his wrestling skills.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Among other things, he would travel to Mexico, Brazil and Russia, as well as train with [[Brock Lesnar]] at his personal gym in order to gain muscle mass. NJPW President Simon Inoki later suggested that as part of his learning excursion, Nakamura would be loaned to [[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]] (WWE) to gain experience in working large American shows.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2006/05/18/0000033063.shtml|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20060626093640/http://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2006/05/18/0000033063.shtml|title=中邑、ＷＷＥ"レンタル移籍"か|date=2006-05-18|archivedate=2006-06-26|work=Daily Sports Online|publisher=[[Kobe Shimbun]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> However, it proved to be mostly speculation and never came to pass, as Nakamura was urgently needed back in New Japan due to Lesnar's departure. On September 24, 2006, Nakamura made his long awaited return to New Japan, joining Masahiro Chono's Black stable, which had the goal of reforming New Japan with Chono as the president and Nakamura as the "Ace".<ref name=PuroCentral/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/index.php?subaction=showcomments&id=1162120267&archive=&start_from=&ucat=&|archiveurl=http://replay.web.archive.org/20061119033008/http://www.puroresufan.com/index.php?subaction=showcomments&id=1162120267&archive=&start_from=&ucat=&|date=2006-10-29|archivedate=2006-11-19|title=(Results) New Japan, 10/29/06|accessdate=2011-05-12|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> Nakamura had greatly improved his muscular mass during his overseas training and also debuted a new finisher, called the Landslide.<ref name=PuroCentral/> On December 10, 2006, Nakamura was unable to win the IWGP Heavyweight Championship from then-champion Tanahashi and was again unsuccessful on January 4, 2007 at the [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom in Tokyo Dome]] show, which he lost to [[Toshiaki Kawada]].<ref name=PuroCentral/> Nakamura entered the [[G1 Climax#2007|2007 G1 Climax]] tournament, where he reached the semifinals, before dislocating his shoulder.<ref name=PuroCentral/> The injury sidelined Nakamura for months, but on November 11 he made his return and took over the leadership of Black from Chono and reformed the stable under the new name [[RISE (professional wrestling)|RISE]], consisting of himself, [[Minoru Tanaka (wrestler)|Minoru]], [[Milano Collection A.T.]], [[Hirooki Goto]], [[Matt Bloom|Giant Bernard]], [[Travis Tomko]], and [[Fergal Devitt|Prince Devitt]].<ref name=PuroCentral/> [[Low Ki]] was later added to the stable after Milano was injured, having impressed NJPW officials during an appearance when he was still with [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling]]. On December 9 Nakamura defeated [[Togi Makabe]] to earn an IWGP Heavyweight Championship match at the following month's Tokyo Dome show.<ref name=PuroCentral/> [[File:NakamuraShinsuke-10.13.2008.png|thumb|upright|Nakamura in October 2008]] On January 4, 2008, Nakamura defeated his rival Tanahashi in the main event of [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom II in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom II in Tokyo Dome]], winning the IWGP Heavyweight Championship for the second time.<ref name=PuroCentral/> He followed that up with defeating [[Kurt Angle]] on February 17, 2008 to win the [[Inoki Genome Federation|IGF]] version of the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and unify it with his own NJPW version of the title.<ref name=PuroCentral/> He lost the IWGP Heavyweight Championship to [[All Japan Pro Wrestling]] representative [[Keiji Mutoh]] in Osaka on April 27, 2008.<ref name=PuroCentral/> September 5, 2008, Nakamura and stablemate Hirooki Goto challenged Togi Makabe and [[Toru Yano]] for the IWGP Tag Team titles but failed, and afterwards Giant Bernard and [[Rick Fuller]] attacked Nakamura and Goto and joined Makabe's [[Great Bash Heel|GBH]] (Great Bash Heel) group along with the returning Low Ki.<ref name=PuroCentral/> He also failed to win back the IWGP Title from Keiji Mutoh on October 13.<ref name=PuroCentral/> On February 15, 2009, Nakamura faced Hiroshi Tanahashi for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, but once again failed to regain the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=413|title=Results New Japan, 2/15/09|date=2009-02-15|accessdate=2010-04-27|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> ====Strong style resurrection (2009–2012)==== {{Main|Chaos (professional wrestling)}} In April 2009, Nakamura turned heel, siding with the former members of GBH (especially Toru Yano) in a feud against Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma. This new group was soon named [[Chaos (professional wrestling)|Chaos]] with Nakamura as their leader.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Nakamura began to work a much rougher style, using a lot of knees and continuing to use a straight right hand as a frequent move in addition to the Bomaye, his new finisher. It was the Bomaye that took him to the finals of the [[G1 Climax#2009|2009 G1 Climax]], where he fell to Togi Makabe.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Prior to the final Nakamura had gone undefeated, winning each match with the Bomaye. The move was also credited for fracturing IWGP Heavyweight Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi's orbital bone in the semi-finals of the G1, which forced Tanahashi to vacate the title later that month.<ref name=PuroCentral/> [[File:Shinsuke Nakamura.jpg|thumb|upright||Nakamura in November 2011]] On September 27, 2009, Nakamura avenged his G1 loss and defeated Makabe in a decision match to win the IWGP Heavyweight title for a third time.<ref name=PuroCentral/> Upon winning the title, Nakamura drew the ire of the likes of [[Antonio Inoki]] by announcing his plan of wanting to restore the "Strong Style" of New Japan by capturing the original IWGP Heavyweight Championship belt from Inoki to replace the fourth generation title belt Nakamura himself has.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1052|title=New Japan vs. IGF imminent?, Liger in NOAH tournament, Tenzan has surgery|date=2009-10-01|accessdate=2010-04-27|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On October 12, he successfully defended the title against [[Shinjiro Otani]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1074|title=Results New Japan, 10/12/09|date=2009-10-12|accessdate=2010-04-27|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On November 8 at [[Destruction '09]] Nakamura successfully defended his title against previous champion Hiroshi Tanahashi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1146|title=Results New Japan, 11/8/09|date=2009-11-08|accessdate=2010-04-27|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On December 5, he retained the title by defeating [[Yuji Nagata]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1218|title=Results New Japan, 12/5/09 & first 1/4 matches announced!|date=2009-12-05|accessdate=2010-04-27|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On January 4, 2010, at [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom IV in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom IV in Tokyo Dome]], Nakamura successfully defended his IWGP Heavyweight Championship against Yoshihiro Takayama in a rematch of their 2004 Tokyo Dome title unification bout.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/11848/|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20110917002311/http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/11848/|archivedate=2011-09-17|title=January 4 New Japan Tokyo Dome report - legends, promotional wars|date=2010-01-04|accessdate=2010-01-04|publisher=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer]]}}</ref> After defeating Takayama he was challenged by [[Manabu Nakanishi]], whom he would pin on February 14 at New Japan's ISM show in Sumo Hall, making his fifth defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1401|title=Results New Japan, 2/14/10|date=2010-02-14|accessdate=2010-03-08|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On April 4 Nakamura made his sixth successful title defense against the [[New Japan Cup#2010|2010 New Japan Cup]] winner and former team mate Hirooki Goto and afterwards accepted Togi Makabe's challenge for the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1486|title=Results New Japan, 4/4/10 & SUPER J TAG TOURNAMENT lineup|date=2010-04-04|accessdate=2010-04-05|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On May 3, 2010, at [[Wrestling Dontaku 2010]] Nakamura lost the IWGP Heavyweight Championship to Makabe.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://superluchas.net/jushin-liger-nuevo-campeon-mundial-medio-del-cmll-nakamura-pierde-el-titulo-iwgp/ | title= Jushin Liger, nuevo campeón mundial medio del CMLL – Nakamura pierde el título IWGP | author= Flores, Manuel | date=2010-05-03| accessdate=2010-05-03| publisher= ''SuperLuchas'' Magazine | language=Spanish}}</ref> Following the loss, Nakamura was sidelined with a shoulder injury, until he returned on June 19 at [[Dominion 6.19]], defeating [[Daniel Puder]]. Simon Inoki and Atsushi Sawada of IGF appeared at the show and seemed to eye up Nakamura after the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1574|title=Partial 6.19 Osaka card announced; GBH vs. NOAH, Hair vs. Hair, more!|date=2010-05-17|accessdate=2010-05-21|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1659|title=(Results) New Japan "DOMINION 6.19", 6/19|date=2010-06-19|accessdate=2010-06-19|publisher=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> On July 19 Nakamura received a rematch for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, but was once again defeated by Togi Makabe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1785|title=(Results) New Japan, 7/19/10|date=2010-07-19|accessdate=2010-07-20|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> The following month Nakamura entered the [[G1 Climax#2010|2010 G1 Climax]], where he won four out of his seven round robin stage matches, including one over eventual winner [[Satoshi Kojima]], and was leading his block heading to the final day, where he wrestled Pro Wrestling Noah's [[Go Shiozaki]] to a 30-minute time limit draw and thus missed the finals of the tournament by a single point.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1950|title=(Results) New Japan, 8/14/10|work=Strong Style Spirit|date=2010-08-14|accessdate=2010-08-15}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=1973|title=(Results) New Japan, 8/15/10|work=Strong Style Spirit|date=2010-08-15|accessdate=2010-08-15}}</ref> The draw with Shiozaki led to a No Time Limit match at a Pro Wrestling Noah show on August 22, where Shiozaki was victorious.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2007|title=NJ in NOAH results; Kanemoto & Tiger win belts, Nakamura loses|date=2010-08-22|accessdate=2010-08-22|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> Despite losing to Hirooki Goto in a number one contender's match on October 11, Nakamura was hand–picked by the new IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Satoshi Kojima, as his first challenger.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2179|title=Arguments over next challenger, G1 Tag cards|date=2010-10-12|work=Strong Style Spirit|accessdate=2010-12-11}}</ref> The title match took place on December 11 and ended with Kojima retaining his title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2408|title=(Results) New Japan, 12/11/10 & Liger wins another title in USA|date=2010-12-11|work=Strong Style Spirit|accessdate=2010-12-11}}</ref> On January 4, 2011, Nakamura avenged his loss to Go Shiozaki by defeating him in a singles match at [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom V in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom V in Tokyo Dome]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=132|script-title=ja:レッスルキングダムⅤ ｉｎ 東京ドーム|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2011-01-04|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1294158810|title=1/4 TNA-NJPW Results: Tokyo, Japan|last=Gerweck|first=Steve|date=2011-01-04|accessdate=2011-01-04|work=Wrestleview}}</ref> On May 3, Nakamura failed in his attempt to regain the IWGP Heavyweight Championship from Hiroshi Tanahashi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=173|script-title=ja:レスリングどんたく 2011|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2011-05-03|language=Japanese}}</ref> From late May to early June, Nakamura worked a tour with [[Mexico|Mexican]] promotion [[Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre]] (CMLL), whom New Japan had a working agreement with.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://superluchas.net/shinsuke-nakamura-viajara-a-mexico/ | title=Shinsuke Nakamura viajará a México | author=Zayfren | date=2011-05-17 | accessdate=2013-01-19 | publisher=''SuperLuchas'' Magazine | language=Spanish}}</ref> On August 1, Nakamura entered the [[G1 Climax#2011|2011 G1 Climax]] and, after winning seven out of his nine round robin stage matches, finished first in his block to advance to the finals of the tournament. On August 14, Nakamura defeated [[Tetsuya Naito]] to win the 2011 G1 Climax and earn another shot at the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.<ref name=G1Climax2011>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=322|title=ブシロード Presents G1 Climax XXI ～The Invincible Fighter～|date=2011-08-14|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2011-08-14|language=Japanese}}</ref> Nakamura went on to challenge for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship on September 19, but failed to recapture the title from Hiroshi Tanahashi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=394|title=G1 Climax Special 2011|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2011-09-19|language=Japanese}}</ref> In the [[G1 Tag League#2011|2011 G1 Tag League]], Nakamura teamed with Toru Yano as the "Chaos Top Team", winning all five of their group stage matches, advancing to the semifinals of the tournament with a clean sheet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=3235|title=(Results) New Japan, 11/4/11|work=Strong Style Spirit|date=2011-11-04|accessdate=2011-11-04}}</ref> On November 6, Nakamura and Yano were eliminated from the tournament in the semifinals by the team of [[Minoru Suzuki]] and [[Lance Hoyt|Lance Archer]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=467|title=G1 Tag League 2011|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2011-11-06|language=Japanese}}</ref> On January 4, 2012, at [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom VI in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom VI in Tokyo Dome]], the Chaos Top Team was defeated by Pro Wrestling Noah representatives, Go Shiozaki and [[Naomichi Marufuji]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=470|title=NJPW 40th anniversary Tour. レッスルキングダムⅥ in 東京ドーム|accessdate=2012-01-04|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> ====Intercontinental Champion (2012–2016)==== [[File:Shinsuke Nakamura NJPW.JPG|thumb|left|upright|Nakamura in September 2013, during his second reign as the [[IWGP Intercontinental Championship|IWGP Intercontinental Champion]]]] On July 22, 2012, Nakamura defeated Hirooki Goto to win the [[IWGP Intercontinental Championship]] for the first time.<ref name=KizunaRoad>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=593|title=NJPW 40th anniversary Tour Kizuna Road|accessdate=2012-07-22|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> In August's [[G1 Climax#2012|2012 G1 Climax tournament]], Nakamura wrestled in the same block as fellow Chaos member and recent IWGP Heavyweight Champion [[Kazuchika Okada]]. The two stablemates faced each other on August 5, with Nakamura picking up the win, effectively solidifying his spot as the leader of Chaos in the process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=600|title=カードファイト!! ヴァンガード Presents NJPW 40th anniversary Tour G1 Climax 22 ～The One And Only～|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|date=2012-08-05|accessdate=2012-08-12|language=Japanese}}</ref> After four wins and three losses, Nakamura was defeated in the final day of the tournament by Hiroyoshi Tenzan and was thus eliminated from the finals, failing to defend his crown.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=605|title=カードファイト!! ヴァンガード Presents NJPW 40th anniversary Tour G1 Climax 22 ～The One And Only～|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|date=2012-08-12|accessdate=2012-08-12|language=Japanese}}</ref> On August 26, Nakamura traveled to the United States to make his first successful defense of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship, defeating Oliver John at a Sacramento Wrestling Federation (SWF) event in [[Gridley, California]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_64632.shtml|title=8/26 SWF results Northern California: Alex Shelley & A.J. Kirsch challenge for IWGP Jr. Tag Titles, New Japan's IC Title defended, more|last=Gee Schoon Tong|first=Chris|date=2012-08-27|accessdate=2012-08-27|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=8055|title=【アメリカ遠征速報!!】中邑がIC王座初防衛!! 新ベルトも披露!! Ａ・シェリーをKushidaが救出!!|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|date=2012-08-28|accessdate=2012-08-28|language=Japanese}}</ref> The following day, Nakamura threw the [[ceremonial first pitch]] at a [[Major League Baseball]] game between the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] and [[Tampa Bay Rays]] in [[Arlington, Texas]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=8057|script-title=ja:アメリカ遠征中の中邑真輔が、テキサス・レンジャーズ公式戦の始球式に登場!!|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|date=2012-08-28|accessdate=2012-08-29|language=Japanese}}</ref> On October 8 at [[King of Pro-Wrestling (2012)|King of Pro-Wrestling]], Nakamura successfully defended the IWGP Intercontinental Championship in a rematch against Hirooki Goto.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=619|title=NJPW 40ｔｈ anniversary King of Pro-Wrestling|accessdate=2012-10-08|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1349710834|title=10/8 NJPW iPPV Results: Tokyo, Japan|last=Namako|first=Jason|date=2012-10-08|accessdate=2012-10-08|work=Wrestleview}}</ref> On November 11 at [[Power Struggle (2012)|Power Struggle]], Nakamura made his third successful defense against [[Karl Anderson]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=625|title=NJPW 40th anniversary Power Struggle|accessdate=2012-11-11|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1352765476|title=11/11 NJPW iPPV Results: Osaka, Japan|last=Namako|first=Jason|date=2012-11-12|accessdate=2012-11-13|work=Wrestleview}}</ref> From November 20 to December 1, Nakamura took part in the round-robin portion of the [[G1 Tag League#2012|2012 World Tag League]], alongside stablemate [[Tomohiro Ishii]] under the team name "Chaos Invincible".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=8507|title=11月20日(火)開幕!!　『World Tag League 2012』の対戦カード決定!!　TDC大会、愛知大会には桜庭＆柴田が特別参戦！|date=2012-11-16|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2012-12-01|language=Japanese}}</ref> The team finished with a record of three wins, which included a win over stablemates Kazuchika Okada and [[Nobuo Yoshihashi|Yoshi-Hashi]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=649|title=NJPW 40ｔｈ anniversary Tour World Tag League 2012|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2012-12-01|language=Japanese}}</ref> and three losses, failing to advance from their block.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=648|title=NJPW 40ｔｈ anniversary Tour World Tag League 2012|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2012-12-01|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=654|title=NJPW 40ｔｈ anniversary Tour World Tag League 2012|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|accessdate=2012-12-01|language=Japanese}}</ref> On January 4, 2013, at [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom 7 in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom 7 in Tokyo Dome]], Nakamura defeated [[Kazushi Sakuraba]] for his fourth successful defense of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=657|title=Wrestle Kingdom 7 ～Evolution～ in 東京ドーム|accessdate=2013-01-04|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_67650.shtml|title=Show Results - 1/4 New Japan Tokyo Dome Show: Former WWE stars in undercard matches, Tanahashi vs. Okada, did any titles change hands?|date=2013-01-04|accessdate=2013-01-04|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> From January 18 to 19, Nakamura took part in the ''[[Fantastica Mania 2013]]'' weekend, co-promoted by New Japan and CMLL. In the main event of the second night, he made his fifth successful defense of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship against [[La Sombra (wrestler)|La Sombra]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=681 | title=NJPW Presents CMLL Fantastica Mania 2013 | accessdate=2013-01-19 | work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]] | language=Japanese}}</ref> In early 2013, Nakamura became involved in Chaos' rivalry with New Japan's other top villainous stable, [[Suzuki-gun]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result_game.php?e=683&c=5116 | title=Road to The New Beginning | accessdate=2013-05-03 |work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]] | language=Japanese}}</ref> On March 3 at New Japan's 41st anniversary event, Nakamura defeated Suzuki-gun's Lance Archer for his sixth successful title defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=691|script-title=ja:旗揚げ記念日|accessdate=2013-03-03|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On April 5, Nakamura and Tomohiro Ishii unsuccessfully challenged Archer and [[David Hart Smith|Davey Boy Smith Jr.]], [[Killer Elite Squad|K.E.S.]], for the IWGP Tag Team Championship.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=705 | title = Road to Invasion Attack | accessdate=2013-04-05 | work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]] | language=Japanese}}</ref> Two days later at [[Invasion Attack (2013)|Invasion Attack]], Nakamura successfully defended the IWGP Intercontinental Championship against Smith, avenging the previous loss from the first round of the New Japan Cup.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=706 | title=Invasion Attack | accessdate=2013-04-07 | work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]] | language=Japanese}}</ref><ref name=InvasionAttackPWT>{{cite web | url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_69827.shtml | title=Caldwell's New Japan "Invasion Attack" iPPV report 4/7: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of new IWGP World champion, U.S. stars in title matches, more | last=Caldwell | first=James | date=2013-04-07 | accessdate=2013-04-07 | work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On May 3 at [[Wrestling Dontaku 2013]], Nakamura defeated Suzuki-gun's newest member [[Shelton Benjamin|Shelton X Benjamin]] for his eighth successful defense of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=708|script-title=ja:レスリングどんたく 2013|accessdate=2013-05-03|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_70387.shtml|title=Show results - 5/3 NJPW Dontaku PPV: U.S. stars lose titles or title matches, Okada's first IWGP Title defense, more|date=2013-05-04|accessdate=2013-05-04|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On May 11, Nakamura left for another tour with Mexican promotion CMLL.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/142004/|script-title=ja:中邑強行「メキシコで防衛戦」|date=2013-05-12|accessdate=2013-05-12|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> His first match back in Mexico took place the following day, when he teamed with [[El Felino]] and [[Negro Casas]] in a six-man tag team Two Out of Three Falls match at [[Arena Coliseo]], where they were defeated by [[Máscara Dorada]], [[Rush (wrestler)|Rush]] and [[Titán (wrestler)|Titán]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=9503|title=イヤァオ！メヒコ！中邑真輔、刺激を求めてCMLL参戦！|date=2013-05-13|accessdate=2013-05-13|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> Nakamura quickly started a rivalry with La Sombra and, after suffering two pinfall defeats against the Mexican in six-man tag team matches on April 17 and 24, accepted his challenge for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship, setting up a ''Fantastica Mania 2013'' rematch between the two.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=9534|script-title=ja:メヒコで抗争激化！ 中邑真輔選手5月24日（金）アレナメヒコ金曜定期戦試合結果|date=2013-05-20|accessdate=2013-05-27|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=9596|script-title=ja:５月３１日メキシコ現地にて、ラ・ソンブラが中邑真輔のインターコンチ王座に再挑戦!!|date=2013-05-27|accessdate=2013-05-27|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> The match took place on May 31 and saw La Sombra once again defeat Nakamura to become the new IWGP Intercontinental Champion, ending his reign at 313 days and eight successful title defenses.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://superluchas.net/la-sombra-nuevo-campeon-intercontinental-iwgp/ | title=¡La Sombra… nuevo Campeón Intercontinental IWGP! |last=Mexicool | first=Rey | date=2013-05-31 | accessdate=2013-05-31 | publisher=''SuperLuchas'' Magazine | language=Spanish}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://cmll.com/02_resultados/super_viernes/super_viernes_cmll.htm|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6H33yJN7n|title=Resultados Arena México Viernes 31 de Mayo '13|last=Salazar López|first=Alexis A.|archivedate=2013-06-01|date=2013-06-01|accessdate=2013-06-01|work=[[Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre]]|language=Spanish}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=9633|script-title=ja:ラ・ソンブラが新インターコンチネンタル王者に！ 中邑がメキシコで王座陥落！|date=2013-06-01|accessdate=2013-06-01|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/31572-sombra-wins-ic-title-at-arena-mexico|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130609015922/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/31572-sombra-wins-ic-title-at-arena-mexico|archivedate=2013-06-09|title=Sombra wins IC title at Arena Mexico|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2013-06-01|accessdate=2013-06-01|work=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Nakamura wrestled his final match of the tour on June 9, when he was defeated by Rush in a singles match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cmll.com/02_resultados/dom_coliseo/dom_coliseo.htm|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6HGWIOEe1|title=Resultados Arena Coliseo Domingo 9 de Junio '13|last=Salazar López|first=Alexis A.|archivedate=2013-06-10|date=2013-06-10|accessdate=2013-06-10|work=[[Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre]]|language=Spanish}}</ref> Nakamura returned to New Japan on June 22 at [[Dominion 6.22]] in a tag team match, where he and Tomohiro Ishii were defeated by Minoru Suzuki and Shelton X Benjamin, who pinned Nakamura for the win.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=729|title=Dominion 6.22|accessdate=2013-06-22|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On July 20, Nakamura regained the IWGP Intercontinental Championship from La Sombra, becoming the first two-time holder of the title.<ref name=KizunaRoad2013>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=738|title=吉野家Presents Kizuna Road 2013|accessdate=2013-07-20|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> From August 1 to 11, Nakamura took part in the [[G1 Climax#2013|2013 G1 Climax]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=9857|title=ブ『G1 Climax 23』出場メンバー発表!! 飯伏幸太、石井智宏が初出場!! 柴田勝頼が9年ぶりエントリー!!|date=2013-07-05|accessdate=2013-08-11|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> Finishing with a record of five wins and four losses, Nakamura narrowly failed to advance to the finals, after losing to Shelton X Benjamin on the final day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=747|title=ブシモ Presents G1 Climax 23|accessdate=2013-08-11|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_72623.shtml|title=Live results - New Japan's G1 Climax Finals 8/11: Caldwell's complete coverage of Sunday's event featuring Naito vs. Tanahashi, Shelton, Hoyt, Bulldog, Jr., Devitt, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2013-08-11|accessdate=2013-08-11|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On September 29 at [[Destruction (2013)|Destruction]], Nakamura defeated Benjamin to make the first successful defense of his second reign as the IWGP Intercontinental Champion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=759|title=Destruction|accessdate=2013-09-29|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> His second successful defense took place on October 14 at [[King of Pro-Wrestling (2013)|King of Pro-Wrestling]], when he defeated Pro Wrestling Noah representative Naomichi Marufuji.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=762|title=King of Pro-Wrestling|accessdate=2013-10-14|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On November 9 at [[Power Struggle (2013)|Power Struggle]], Nakamura made his third successful title defense against Minoru Suzuki in a match, which had the added stipulation that Nakamura would have had to join Suzuki-gun had he lost the title. Post-match Nakamura nominated Hiroshi Tanahashi as his next challenger, setting up the first title match between the two longtime rivals in over two years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=772|title=Power Struggle|accessdate=2013-11-09|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> From November 23 to December 7, Nakamura and Tomohiro Ishii took part in the [[G1 Tag League#2013|2013 World Tag League]], where they finished with a record of three wins and three losses, with a loss against Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma on the final day costing them a spot in the semifinals.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=782|title=World Tag League 2013|accessdate=2013-12-07|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=792|title=World Tag League 2013|accessdate=2013-12-07|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> [[File:Shinsuke Nakamura at BCW East Meets West.jpg|thumb|left|Nakamura as the [[IWGP Intercontinental Championship|IWGP Intercontinental Champion]] in May 2014]] On January 4, 2014, Nakamura lost the IWGP Intercontinental Championship to Hiroshi Tanahashi in the main event of [[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom 8 in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom 8 in Tokyo Dome]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=781|title=バディファイトPresents Wrestle Kingdom 8 in 東京ドーム|accessdate=2014-01-04|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_75461.shtml|title=Caldwell's NJPW Tokyo Dome results 1/4: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of New Japan's biggest show of the year - four title changes, former WWE/TNA stars featured, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-01-04|accessdate=2014-01-04|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> A rematch between the two took place on February 9 at [[The New Beginning in Hiroshima]] and saw Nakamura fail in his attempt to regain the IWGP Intercontinental Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=810|title=The New Beginning in Hiroshima|accessdate=2014-02-09|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_76249.shtml|title=NJPW News: Titles defended at Sunday's "New Beginning" show - IWGP IC Title, IWGP Tag Titles, NWA World Title|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-02-09|accessdate=2014-02-09|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> In March, Nakamura took part in the [[New Japan Cup#2014|2014 New Japan Cup]], which he eventually won, defeating [[Fale Simitaitoko|Bad Luck Fale]] in the finals on March 23, and afterwards challenged Tanahashi to another rematch for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship.<ref name=NJC2014>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=821|title=New Japan Cup 2014|accessdate=2014-03-23|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On April 6 at [[Invasion Attack 2014]], Nakamura defeated Tanahashi to win the IWGP Intercontinental Championship for the third time.<ref name=InvasionAttack2014>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=827|title=Invasion Attack 2014|accessdate=2014-04-06|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_77512.shtml|title=Caldwell's NJPW PPV results 4/6: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of "Invasion Attack 2014" - Nakamura regains IC Title, A.J. Styles big angle, new NWA tag champions, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-04-06|accessdate=2014-04-06|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following month, Nakamura took part in NJPW's North American tour, defeating [[Ring of Honor]]'s [[Kevin Owens|Kevin Steen]] in an interpromotional match at [[War of the Worlds (2014)|War of the Worlds]] on May 17.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_78455.shtml|title=Caldwell's ROH iPPV results 5/17: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of War of the Worlds - ROH Title & IWGP Title main events, new ROH tag champs, Steen vs. Nakamura, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-05-17|accessdate=2014-05-17|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On May 25 [[Back to the Yokohama Arena]], Nakamura made the first successful defense of his third reign as the IWGP Intercontinental Champion against Daniel Gracie.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=842|title=Back to the Yokohama Arena|accessdate=2014-05-25|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_78619.shtml|title=Caldwell's NJPW iPPV results 5/25: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live show featuring Styles vs. Okada for IWGP World Title, MOTY Contender, NWA Tag Titles, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-05-25|accessdate=2014-05-25|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On June 21 at [[Dominion 6.21]], Nakamura lost the title to Bad Luck Fale in his second defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=853|title=Dominion 6.21|accessdate=2014-06-21|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_79157.shtml|title=NJPW news: Key results from Saturday's "Dominion" PPV featuring U.S. stars in top title matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-06-21|accessdate=2014-06-21|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> In the [[G1 Climax#2014|2014 G1 Climax]], Nakamura won his block with eight wins and two losses, advancing to the finals.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=871|title=バディファイトPresents G1 Climax 24|accessdate=2014-08-08|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/misc-news/50055-8-8-njpw-g-1-climax-day-11-recap-okada-suzuki|title=8/8 NJPW G-1 Climax Day 11 recap (Okada/Suzuki)|last=Namako|first=Jason|date=2014-08-08|accessdate=2014-08-08|work=Wrestleview}}</ref> On August 10, Nakamura was defeated in the finals by Chaos stablemate Kazuchika Okada.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=872|title=バディファイトPresents G1 Climax 24|accessdate=2014-08-10|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_80097.shtml|title=Caldwell's New Japan G1 Climax finals results 8/10: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Okada vs. Nakamura tournament finals, Styles vs. Tanahashi, Jeff Jarrett, ROH tag champs, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-08-10|accessdate=2014-08-10|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On September 21 at [[Destruction in Kobe (2014)|Destruction in Kobe]], Nakamura regained the IWGP Intercontinental Championship from Bad Luck Fale.<ref name=DestructioninKobe>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=886|title=Destruction in Kobe|accessdate=2014-09-21|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_80838.shtml|title=Caldwell's New Japan PPV results 9/21: Complete live coverage of "Destruction in Kobe" - Nakamura regains IC Title, Tanahashi vs. Shibata, A.J. Styles, new Jr. Hvt. champion, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-09-21|accessdate=2014-09-21|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> He made his first successful title defense on November 8 at [[Power Struggle (2014)|Power Struggle]] against Katsuyori Shibata.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=898|title=Power Struggle|accessdate=2014-11-08|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> From November 23 to December 5, Nakamura took part in the [[G1 Tag League#2014|2014 World Tag League]], alongside Tomohiro Ishii.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=12707|title=『World Tag League 2014』出場チーム＆公式戦が決定！ 棚橋はヨシタツとタッグ結成！ 桜庭、AJ、柴田、ROH、NWAも参戦!|date=2014-11-11|accessdate=2014-12-05|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> The team finished second in their block with a record of four wins and three losses, narrowly missing the finals of the tournament due to losing to Hirooki Goto and Katsuyori Shibata on the final day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=912|title=World Tag League 2014|accessdate=2014-12-05|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On January 4, 2015, at [[Wrestle Kingdom 9|Wrestle Kingdom 9 in Tokyo Dome]], Nakamura made his second successful defense of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship against [[Kota Ibushi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=902|title=Wrestle Kingdom 9 in 東京ドーム|accessdate=2015-01-04|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_82579.shtml|title=Caldwell's NJPW Tokyo Dome show results 1/4: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Wrestle Kingdom PPV - Tanahashi vs. Okada, Bullet Club, Nakamura, Jim Ross, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2015-01-04|accessdate=2015-01-04|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> His third defense took place on February 14 at [[The New Beginning in Sendai]], where he defeated Yuji Nagata.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=935|title=The New Beginning in Sendai|accessdate=2015-02-14|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> Nakamura's fourth title reign ended on May 3 at [[Wrestling Dontaku 2015]], where he was defeated by Hirooki Goto.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=968|title=レスリングどんたく 2015|accessdate=2015-05-03|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> Nakamura received a rematch for the title on July 5 at [[Dominion 7.5 in Osaka-jo Hall]], but was again defeated by Goto.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=990|title=Dominion 7.5 in Osaka-jo Hall|accessdate=2015-07-05|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/102-japan/43407-new-japan-dominion-live-coverage-from-osaka-jo-hall-styles-vs-okada-for-iwgp-title-nakamura-vs-goto-for-ic-title-and-notes-on-biggest-event-since-the-tokyo-dome|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20150919041705/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/102-japan/43407-new-japan-dominion-live-coverage-from-osaka-jo-hall-styles-vs-okada-for-iwgp-title-nakamura-vs-goto-for-ic-title-and-notes-on-biggest-event-since-the-tokyo-dome|archivedate=2015-09-19|title=New Japan Dominion live coverage from Osaka Jo Hall - Styles vs. Okada for IWGP title, Nakamura vs. Goto for IC title and notes on biggest event since the Tokyo Dome, plus all G-1 main events|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2015-07-04|accessdate=2015-07-05|work=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> From July 23 to August 15, Nakamura took part in the round-robin stage of the [[G1 Climax#2015|2015 G1 Climax]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/80-features-and-tv-reviews/43611-the-big-audio-nightmares-guide-to-the-annual-new-japan-g1-climax|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20150722020322/http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/80-features-and-tv-reviews/43611-the-big-audio-nightmares-guide-to-the-annual-new-japan-g1-climax|archivedate=2015-07-22|title=The Big Audio Nightmare's Guide to the annual New Japan G1 Climax|last=Sempervive|first=Mike|date=2015-07-18|accessdate=2015-08-14|work=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Despite missing one match due to an elbow injury,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=14538|title=【G125】【お詫びとお知らせ】7月28日（火）大分・別府大会を中邑真輔選手が欠場、エルガン選手とのリーグ戦は不戦敗に|date=2015-07-28|accessdate=2015-08-15|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> Nakamura won his block and advanced to the finals by defeating reigning IWGP Heavyweight Champion and Chaos stablemate Kazuchika Okada in his last round-robin match, giving him a record of seven wins and two losses.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=1010|title=バディファイトPresents G1 Climax 25|accessdate=2015-08-14|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On August 16, Nakamura was defeated in the finals of the tournament by Hiroshi Tanahashi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=1012|title=バディファイトPresents G1 Climax 25|accessdate=2015-08-16|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/102-japan/44092-njpw-g1-climax-8-16-live-results-hiroshi-tanahashi-vs-shinsuke-nakamura|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20150905223155/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/102-japan/44092-njpw-g1-climax-8-16-live-results-hiroshi-tanahashi-vs-shinsuke-nakamura|archivedate=2015-09-05|title=NJPW G1 Climax 8-16 live results: Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Shinsuke Nakamura|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2015-08-15|accessdate=2015-08-16|work=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> On September 27 at [[Destruction in Kobe (2015)|Destruction in Kobe]], Nakamura defeated Hirooki Goto to win the IWGP Intercontinental Championship for the fifth time.<ref name=DestructioninKobe2015>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=1037|title=Destruction in Kobe|accessdate=2015-09-27|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_87726.shtml|title=Show results - 9/27 NJPW "Destruction in Kobe" Event: Major title change in the main event, ReDragon vs. Time Splitters, A.J. Styles's Bullet Club in action, more big matches|date=2015-09-27|accessdate=2015-09-27|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> He made his first successful title defense on November 7 at [[Power Struggle (2015)|Power Struggle]] against Karl Anderson,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/japan/njpw-power-struggle-live-results-2015-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-karl-anderson-ic-title-201186|title=NJPW Power Struggle live results 2015: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Karl Anderson for IC title|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2015-11-06|accessdate=2015-11-07|work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> avenging an earlier loss from the 2015 G1 Climax.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/464064/|script-title=ja:中邑が１・４ドームＩＣ戦の挑戦者を公募|date=2015-10-24|accessdate=2015-11-07|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> He made his second successful defense on January 4, 2016, by defeating [[A.J. Styles]] at [[Wrestle Kingdom 10 in Tokyo Dome]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/japan/wrestle-kingdom-10-live-results-kazuchika-okada-vs-hiroshi-tanahashi-204791|title=Wrestle Kingdom 10 live results: Kazuchika Okada vs Hiroshi Tanahashi|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2016-01-03|accessdate=2016-01-04|work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Hours after the event, it was reported that Nakamura had given his notice to NJPW on the morning of January 4, announcing that he was leaving the promotion for WWE.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/njpw-stars-nakamura-aj-styles-luke-gallows-and-karl-anderson-headed-wwe-204971 | title = NJPW stars Nakamura, AJ Styles, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson headed to WWE | last=Rose | first=Bryan | date=2016-01-04 | accessdate=2016-01-04 | work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/04/pwtorch-report-four-big-names-leaving-new-japan-heading-to-wwe/ | archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20160105055406/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/04/pwtorch-report-four-big-names-leaving-new-japan-heading-to-wwe/ | title = PWTorch Report – Four big names leaving New Japan, heading to WWE | last=Caldwell | first=James | archivedate=2016-01-05 | date=2016-01-04 | accessdate=2016-01-04 | work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Nakamura remained under NJPW contract and was expected to finish off his contracted dates with the promotion before leaving.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://pwinsider.com/article/98824/bullet-clubnakamurawwe-update.html?p=1 | title = Bullet Club/Nakamura-WWE update | last=Johnson | first=Mike | date=2016-01-05 | accessdate=2016-01-06 | work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.f4wonline.com/daily-updates/daily-update-styles-nakamura-bullet-club-wwe-rousey-host-snl-204986 | title = Daily Update: Styles, Nakamura, Bullet Club to WWE, Rousey to host SNL | date=2016-01-05 | accessdate=2016-01-06 | work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> On January 12, NJPW confirmed Nakamura's upcoming departure, announcing he would also be stripped of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=15657|script-title=ja:中邑真輔選手、退団のお知らせ|date=2016-01-12|accessdate=2016-01-12|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/japan/new-japan-strips-shinsuke-nakamura-intercontinental-title-205386|title=New Japan strips Shinsuke Nakamura of the Intercontinental Title|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2016-01-12|accessdate=2016-01-12|work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Nakamura handed in the title on January 25, officially ending his fifth reign.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/498568/|script-title=ja:中邑が新日退団会見「新たな刺激、環境、舞台を求めて挑戦し続ける」|date=2016-01-25|accessdate=2016-01-25|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/25/8988/|title=Nakamura formally announces NJPW exit, stripped of IC Title|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2016-01-25|accessdate=2016-01-25|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Nakamura wrestled his last match under his NJPW contract on January 30, where he, Kazuchika Okada and Tomohiro Ishii defeated Hirooki Goto, Hiroshi Tanahashi and Katsuyori Shibata.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=1081|title=Road to the New Beginning|accessdate=2016-01-30|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> ===WWE=== ====NXT (2016–present)==== On January 6, 2016, Nakamura confirmed in an interview with ''[[Tokyo Sports]]'' that he would be leaving NJPW at the end of the month, and signing with WWE.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/491361/|script-title=ja:インターコンチ王者・中邑が新日プロ退団！WWE入り|date=2016-01-07|accessdate=2016-01-07|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/06/pwtorch-report-four-big-names-leaving-new-japan-heading-to-wwe/|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6eM135jIc|title=NJPW to WWE Update – Tokyo Sports reports Nakamura’s exit|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|last2=Radican|first2=Sean|archivedate=2016-01-07|date=2016-01-06|accessdate=2016-01-07|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On January 27, WWE officially announced that Nakamura would be taking part in the [[NXT TakeOver: Dallas]] event on April 1, 2016.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Melok|first1=Bobby|title=Shinsuke Nakamura is coming to NXT|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/shinsuke-nakamura-coming-to-nxt|work=[[WWE]]|date=2016-01-27|accessdate=2016-01-27}}</ref> On January 31, Nakamura was confirmed to have finished his NJPW commitments and was said to be reporting to the [[WWE Performance Center]] for training and handling logistical matters regarding his move to the company.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Mike|title=Shinsuke Nakamura-WWE update|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/99416/shinsuke-nakamurawwe-update.html?p=1|work=Pro Wrestling Insider|date=2016-01-31|accessdate=2016-02-01}}</ref> On February 2, Nakamura arrived in [[Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania]] to undergo pre-contract signing medical tests.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/502246/|script-title=ja:中邑が初激白した「ＷＷＥ挑戦の目的」|date=2016-02-04|accessdate=2016-02-06|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On February 22, WWE held a press conference in [[Tokyo, Japan]] to officially announce the signing of Nakamura to [[WWE NXT]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Melok|first1=Bobby|title=Shinsuke Nakamura signs with WWE NXT|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/article/shinsuke-nakamura-signs-wwe-nxt|date=2016-02-21|accessdate=2016-02-21|work=[[WWE]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/japan/wwenakamura-press-conference-ibushi-announcement-njpw-cup-tournament-208011|title=WWE/Nakamura press conference; Ibushi announcement; NJPW Cup Tournament|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=2016-02-21|accessdate=2016-02-22|work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> On April 1, Nakamura defeated [[Sami Zayn]] in his debut match at NXT TakeOver: Dallas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/01/nxttakeoverdallasresults/|title=4/1 NXT Takeover: Dallas Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report on Nakamura vs. Zayn|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2016-04-01|accessdate=2016-04-01|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On April 7th at an NXT Live event in [[Concord, North Carolina]], Nakamura wrestled the main event match teaming with NXT Champion [[Prince Devitt|Finn Balor]] as they defeated [[Tye Dillinger]] and [[Baron Corbin]]. Both Balor and Nakamura spoke following the match. This marked Nakamura's first NXT Live Event. ==Personal life== Nakamura married Harumi Maekawa on September 1, 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/index.php?|archiveurl=http://replay.web.archive.org/20070619012218/http://www.puroresufan.com/|date=2007-06-05|archivedate=2007-06-19|title=Liger pins CIMA in DG, Nakamura to be married!|accessdate=2011-05-12|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> ==Other media== Along with fellow NJPW wrestler Kazuchika Okada, Nakamura is featured in the Japanese music video for [[Pharrell Williams]]' song ''[[Happy (Pharrell Williams song)|Happy]]'', released in May 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=11486|script-title=ja:あのファレル・ウィリアムスの大ヒットシングル『ハッピー』日本版ミュージックビデオに、中邑真輔＆オカダ・カズチカが出演！|date=2014-04-30|accessdate=2014-04-30|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> On May 27, 2014, Nakamura published an autobiography titled ''King of Strong Style 1980–2004''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=11458|title=【いよいよ本日より!!】5月27日（火）発売!　中邑真輔"自伝"　『King of Strong Style 1980-2004』!!　|date=2014-05-27|accessdate=2014-05-27|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> ==In wrestling== [[File:Nakamura Boma Ye.JPG|thumb|upright|Nakamura performing a standing ''Bomaye'' on [[Karl Anderson]]]] [[File:Nakamura Front Neck Lock.JPG|thumb|upright|Nakamura holding [[Jon Andersen|Strong Man]] in a [[Professional wrestling holds#Front facelock|front sleeper]]]] *'''Finishing moves''' **''Bomaye''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/english/data/detail_profile.php?f=022|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20141225015244/http://www.njpw.co.jp/english/data/detail_profile.php?f=022|title=Shinsuke Nakamura|archivedate=2014-12-25|accessdate=2016-04-01|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]}}</ref> ([[New Japan Pro Wrestling|NJPW]]/[[Ring of Honor|ROH]]) / ''Kinshasa''<ref>{{cite web|title=Nakamura and Zayn tear down the house|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-dallas-2016-04-01|date=2016-04-01|accessdate=2016-04-01|work=[[WWE]]}}</ref> ([[WWE NXT|NXT]]) ([[Professional wrestling attacks#Knee strikes|Running knee strike]] to an opponent's head,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_80073.shtml|title=New Japan G1 Climax results 8/8: Okada, Tanahashi, Styles, Nakamura lead into G1 Climax Finals |last=Caldwell|first=James|date=2014-08-08|accessdate=2016-04-01|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> sometimes from the [[Professional wrestling aerial techniques#Super|second rope]])<ref name=wview1>{{cite web|last1=Namako|first1=Jason|title=8/10 NJPW G-1 Climax Finals Recap (Okada/Nakamura)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/misc-news/50076-8-10-njpw-g-1-climax-finals-recap-okada-nakamura|date=2014-08-10|accessdate=2015-02-17|work=Wrestleview}}</ref> – 2009–present **[[Professional wrestling holds#Cross armbar|Cross armbreaker]],<ref name=Cage>{{cite web|url=http://cagematch.de/?id=2&nr=56|title=Cagematch profile|accessdate=2009-12-09|work=Cagematch}}</ref><ref name=PuroCentral/> sometimes while [[Professional wrestling holds#Flying cross armbar|flying]]<ref name=NJPW/> **''Landslide'' ([[Professional wrestling throws#Samoan driver|Samoan driver]], sometimes from the [[Professional wrestling aerial techniques#Super|second rope]])<ref name=Cage/><ref name=PuroCentral/> – 2006–2009; used rarely thereafter **''Shining Triangle'' ([[Professional wrestling holds#Triangle choke|Running triangle choke]] [[Professional wrestling attacks#Shining Wizard|while using the opponent's knee for leverage]])<ref name=Cage/><ref name=PuroCentral/> *'''Signature moves''' **[[Professional wrestling throws#Death Valley driver|Death Valley driver]]<ref name=PuroCentral/> ** [[Backbreaker#Double knee backbreaker|Double knee backbreaker]]<ref name=InvasionAttackPWT/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestling.net/article.php?1-4-Powell-s-NJPW-Wrestle-Kingdom-9-results-and-review-Hiroshi-Tanahashi-vs.-Kazuchika-Okada-for-the-IWGP-Heavyweight-Championship-A.J.-Styles-vs.-Tetsuya-Naito-Red-Dragon-vs.-The-Time-Splitters-vs.-The-Young-Bucks-vs.-Forever-Hooligans-40339|title=1/4 Powell's NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 9 results and review: Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, A.J. Styles vs. Tetsuya Naito, Red Dragon vs. The Time Splitters vs. The Young Bucks vs. Forever Hooligans|last=Powell|first=Jason|date=2015-01-04|accessdate=2016-01-06|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/radicanstake/article_86066.shtml|title=Radican's NJPW "Dominion" PPV Report 7/5: Okada vs. Styles main event, Shibata-Sakuraba, Goto-Nakamura, more|last=Radican|first=Sean|date=2015-07-06|accessdate=2016-01-06|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_86968.shtml|title=Radican's "NJPW G1 Climax Night 18" PPV Blog 8/15: Elgin-Ishii war, B Block finalist determined, G1 match analysis & ratings|last=Radican|first=Sean|date=2015-08-15|accessdate=2016-01-06|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> **[[Piledriver (professional wrestling)#Double underhook piledriver|Double underhook piledriver]]<ref name=Cage/><ref name=PuroCentral/> **''El Niño'' ([[Moonsault#Springboard moonsault|Springboard moonsault]])<ref name=Cage/><ref name=PuroCentral/> **[[Professional wrestling holds#Front facelock|Front sleeper hold]]<ref name=Purolove/> **[[Suplex#German suplex|German suplex]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=515|title=Shinsuke Nakamura|accessdate=2016-03-13|work=Wrestlingdata}}</ref> **[[Powerbomb#Inverted powerbomb|Inverted powerslam]]<ref name=NJPW/><ref name=Cage/><ref name=PuroCentral/> **[[Professional wrestling attacks#Lariat|Lariat]]<ref name=PuroCentral/> **[[Professional wrestling attacks#Knee strikes|Running knee strike]] to a cornered opponent<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2015/10/22/radicans-new-japan-king-of-pro-wrestling-ppv-report/|title=Radican's New Japan "King of Pro Wrestling" PPV Report|last=Radican|first=Sean|date=2015-10-22|accessdate=2016-02-21|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|quote=Nakamura hit his signature running knee strike in the corner, but Anderson kicked out at 2.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2015/11/11/117-njpw-power-struggle-ppv-radican-reviews-nakamura-vs-anderson-honma-more/|title=11/7 NJPW "Power Struggle" PPV – Radican reviews Nakamura-Anderson, Honma, more|last=Radican|first=Sean|date=2015-11-11|accessdate=2016-02-21|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|quote=Anderson blocked it, but Nakamura caught him with his signature running knee in the corner a short time later for a 2 count.}}</ref> *'''With [[Hiroyoshi Tenzan]]''' **'''Double-team finishing moves''' ***''Ten-Naka Koroshi'' ([[Doomsday Device#Doomsday DDT|Doomsday DDT]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.purolove.com/njpw/results/04tsuyokuaretoukon.php|title=New Japan Pro Wrestling - "Tsuyoku-Are ~ Toukon Series 2004"|accessdate= 2015-11-01|publisher=PuroLove.com|language=German}}</ref> *'''[[Nickname]]s''' **"Child of God"<ref name=Cage/> **"The Black Savior"<ref name=Cage/> **"Supernova"<ref name=Cage/> **'''"The King of Strong Style"'''<ref name=WWE/> **"El Samurai de NJPW"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cmll.com/arena_mexico.htm|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6H2TMJo2O|title=Viernes 31 de Mayo '13|archivedate=2013-05-31|accessdate=2013-05-31|work=[[Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre]]|language=Spanish}}</ref> ([[Spanish language|Spanish]] for "The Samurai of NJPW") ([[Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre|CMLL]]) *'''[[Music in professional wrestling|Entrance themes]]''' **"Subconscious Entry Version" by Julia Claris<ref name=NJPW/> ([[New Japan Pro Wrestling|NJPW]]; 2007–2016) **'''"The Rising Sun"''' by [[CFO$]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wwe-rising-sun-shinsuke-nakamura/id1100269908?i=1100270265|title=WWE: The Rising Sun (Shinsuke Nakamura) - Single|date=2016-04-04|accessdate=2016-04-08|work=[[WWE Music Group]]|publisher=[[iTunes]]}}</ref> ([[WWE NXT|NXT]]; April 1, 2016–present) ==Championships and accomplishments== [[File:Shinsuke Nakamura IWGP Intercontinental Champion.JPG|thumb|upright|Nakamura as the [[IWGP Intercontinental Championship|IWGP Intercontinental Champion]] in September 2014]] *'''[[Inoki Genome Federation]]''' **[[IWGP Heavyweight Championship (IGF)|IWGP Heavyweight Championship]] ([[IWGP Heavyweight Championship (IGF)#Title history|1 time]])¹<ref name=PuroCentral/> *'''[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]''' **[[IWGP Heavyweight Championship]] ([[List of IWGP Heavyweight Champions|3 times]])<ref name=Purolove/> **[[IWGP Intercontinental Championship]] ([[List of IWGP Intercontinental Champions|5 times]])<ref name=KizunaRoad/><ref name=KizunaRoad2013/><ref name=InvasionAttack2014/><ref name=DestructioninKobe/><ref name=DestructioninKobe2015/> **[[IWGP Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of IWGP Tag Team Champions|1 time]]) – with [[Hiroshi Tanahashi]]<ref name=PuroCentral/> **[[IWGP U-30 Openweight Championship]] ([[IWGP U-30 Openweight Championship#Title history|1 time]])<ref name=PuroCentral/> **[[NWF Heavyweight Championship]] ([[NWF Heavyweight Championship#Title history|1 time]])²<ref name=PuroCentral/> **10,000,000 Yin Tag Tournament (2004) – with [[Hiroyoshi Tenzan]]<ref name=PuroCentral/> **[[G1 Climax]] ([[G1 Climax#2011|2011]])<ref name=G1Climax2011/> **[[G1 Tag League]] ([[G1 Tag League#2006|2006]]) – with [[Masahiro Chono]]<ref name=Purolove/> **National District Tournament (2006) – with [[Koji Kanemoto]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/result/2006/1113_1117/1117_01.html|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20070206060437/http://www.njpw.co.jp/result/2006/1113_1117/1117_01.html|script-title=ja:11月17日(金)東京ドームシティ・ジオポリス|archivedate=2007-02-06|accessdate=2013-05-23|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> **[[New Japan Cup]] ([[New Japan Cup#2014|2014]])<ref name=NJC2014/> **Teisen Hall Cup Six Man Tag Team Tournament (2003) – with [[Hiro Saito]] and [[Tatsutoshi Goto]]<ref name=PuroCentral/> **Yuko Six Man Tag Team Tournament (2004) – with [[Dolgorsürengiin Serjbüdee|Blue Wolf]] and [[Katsuhiko Nakajima]]<ref name=PuroCentral/> **Heavyweight Tag MVP Award (2005) <small>with Hiroshi Tanahashi</small><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/2005-awards.html|title=2005 New Japan Awards|accessdate=2011-04-28|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> **New Wave Award (2003)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/2003-awards.html|title=2003 New Japan Awards|accessdate=2011-04-28|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> **Tag Team Best Bout (2004) <small>with Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. [[Katsuyori Shibata]] and Masahiro Chono on October 24</small><ref name=NJPWAwards2004>{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/2004-awards.html|title=2004 New Japan Awards|accessdate=2011-04-28|work=Strong Style Spirit}}</ref> **Technique Award (2004)<ref name=NJPWAwards2004/> *'''''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]''''' **PWI ranked him #'''5''' of the best 500 singles wrestlers in the [[Pro Wrestling Illustrated#PWI 500|PWI 500]] in 2015<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2015.html|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2015|accessdate=2015-10-05|work=The Internet Wrestling Database}}</ref> *'''''[[Tokyo Sports]]''''' **Best Bout Award (2013) <small>vs. [[Kota Ibushi]] on August 4</small><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/212526/|script-title=ja:オカダ・カズチカが２年連続「プロレス大賞」ＭＶＰ！２５年ぶりの快挙|date=2013-12-10|accessdate=2013-12-09|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> **Best Bout Award (2014) <small>vs. [[Kazuchika Okada]] on August 10</small><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/mens_prores/343115/|title=オカダＶＳ中邑「プロレス大賞ベストバウト」は新日８・１０西武ドーム「Ｇ１決勝戦」|date=2014-12-09|accessdate=2014-12-09|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> **Rookie of the Year Award (2003)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cagematch.de/?id=97&nr=14|title=Rookie Of The Year|accessdate=2010-01-21|publisher=Cagematch}}</ref> **Technique Award (2012)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/prores/61838/|script-title=ja:「２０１２年度プロレス大賞」受賞者|date=2012-12-11|accessdate=2012-12-10|work=[[Tokyo Sports]]|language=Japanese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=8661|title=【最年少タイ!!】オカダが『プロレス大賞』MVPを「あたりまえ」の初受賞!! ベストバウトはオカダvs棚橋！中邑は技能賞!!|date=2012-12-11|accessdate=2012-12-10|work=[[New Japan Pro Wrestling]]|language=Japanese}}</ref> *'''''[[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]''''' **[[Dave Meltzer#Rating system|5 Star Match]] (2015) <small>vs. Kota Ibushi on January 4</small><ref>{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=January 12, 2015|title=Jan. 12, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Jon Jones tests positive for cocaine, UFC 182 & Wrestle Kingdom 9 reports, top historical draws, Foxcatcher, and much more|journal=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]|location=[[Campbell, California]]|issn=1083-9593|page=8}}</ref> **5 Star Match (2015) <small>vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi on August 16</small><ref>{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=August 24, 2015|title=August 24, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Summerslam preview, G1 Tournament and finals review, Silva trial details, tons more|journal=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]|location=[[Campbell, California]]|issn=1083-9593|page=24}}</ref> **[[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Most Charismatic|Most Charismatic]] (2014, 2015)<ref name=WONAwards2015>{{cite journal| last = Meltzer | first = Dave | authorlink = Dave Meltzer | date = January 25, 2016 | title = January 25, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2015 Observer Awards Issue | journal = [[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]] | location = [[Campbell, California]] | issn = 1083-9593 | pages=16, 27}}</ref><ref name=WONAwards2014>{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|authorlink=Dave Meltzer|date=January 26, 2015|title=Jan. 26, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2014 awards issue w/ results & Dave’s commentary, Conor McGregor, and much more|journal=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]|location=[[Campbell, California]]|issn=1083-9593|pages=1, 11}}</ref> **[[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Pro Wrestling Match of the Year|Pro Wrestling Match of the Year]] (2015) <small>vs. Kota Ibushi on January 4</small><ref name=WONAwards2015/> **[[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award (Wrestler of the Year)|Wrestler of the Year]] (2014)<ref name=WONAwards2014/> **[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame]] (Class of 2015)<ref name=2015HallofFame>{{cite journal| last = Meltzer | first = Dave | authorlink = Dave Meltzer | date = November 9, 2015 | title = November 9, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2015 Hall of Fame Issue | journal = [[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]] | location = [[Campbell, California]] | issn = 1083-9593 | page=1}}</ref> <small>¹ After winning the IGF's version of the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, the title was unified with the NJPW sanctioned IWGP Heavyweight Championship, which Nakamura also held at the time.</small><br> <small>² After winning the NWF Heavyweight Championship, the title was unified with the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, which Nakamura also held at the time.</small> ==Mixed martial arts record== {{MMArecordbox |draws=0 |nc=1 |ko-wins=0 |ko-losses=0 |sub-wins=3 |sub-losses=1 |dec-wins=0 |dec-losses=0 |dq-wins=0 |dq-losses=0 |other-wins=0 |other-losses=0 }} {{MMA record start}} |- |{{yes2}} Win |align=center| 3-1 (1) |{{sort|Ignashov|[[Alexey Ignashov]]}} |Submission (forearm choke) |[[K-1 MMA ROMANEX]] |{{dts|2004|May|22}} |align=center| 2 |align=center| 1:51 |{{sort|Saitama|Saitama, Japan}} | |- | {{nocontest}}NC |align=center| 2-1 (1) |{{sort|Ignashov|[[Alexey Ignashov]]}} |No contest |[[K-1 PREMIUM 2003 Dynamite!!]] |{{dts|2003|December|31}} |align=center| 3 |align=center| 1:19 |{{sort|Nagoya|[[Nagoya, Japan]]}} | |- |{{yes2}} Win |align=center| 2-1 |{{sort|Eitner|Shane Eitner}} |Submission (keylock) |[[Jungle Fight 1]] |{{dts|2003|September|13}} |align=center| 1 |align=center| 4:29 |{{sort|Manaus|[[Manaus, Brazil]]}} | |- |{{yes2}} Win |align=center| 1-1 |{{sort|Nortje|[[Jan Nortje]]}} |Submission ([[guillotine choke]]) |NJPW - Ultimate Crush |{{dts|2003|May|2}} |align=center| 2 |align=center| 3:12 |{{sort|Tokyo|[[Tokyo, Japan]]}} | |- | {{no2}} Loss |align=center| 0-1 |{{sort|Gracie|[[Daniel Gracie]]}} |Submission (armlock) |Inoki Bom-Ba-Ye 2002 |{{dts|2002|December|31}} |align=center| 2 |align=center| 2:14 |{{sort|Saitama|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama, Japan]]}} | {{end}} ==References== {{Reflist|30em}} ==External links== {{Commons category}} *{{wwe superstar|shinsukenakamura}} *{{Twitter|ShinsukeN}} *{{sherdog|id=6361}} {{Navboxes|1 |list1= {{Chaos (professional wrestling)}} {{IWGP Heavyweight Championship}} {{IWGP Intercontinental Championship}} {{IWGP Tag Team Championship}} {{G1 Tag League}} {{New Japan Cup}} {{G1 Climax}} {{WWE personnel}} }} {{DEFAULTSORT:Nakamura, Shinsuke}} [[Category:1980 births]] [[Category:Living people]] [[Category:Aoyama Gakuin University alumni]] [[Category:Heavyweight mixed martial artists]] [[Category:Japanese mixed martial artists]] [[Category:Sasuke (TV series) contestants]] [[Category:Japanese male professional wrestlers]] [[Category:Sportspeople from Kyoto Prefecture]]'