Tiger Mask IV announces retirement, reveals diverticulitis diagnosis and upcoming back surgery

Tiger Mask IV, the fourth incarnation of the famed Japanese wrestling persona, confirmed he will retire on July 7, 2026. His retirement show will feature two singles matches against Black Tiger (Rocky Romero) and ‘Dynamite Kid’ Tommy Billington, following a six‑man tag appearance at the Road to G1 Climax event.

In a recent interview he disclosed a diverticulitis diagnosis that required emergency surgery in 2020, a three‑week recovery period and temporary use of a stoma bag. He said the condition and resulting abdominal weakness were major factors in his decision to step away from the ring.

He also revealed he will need back surgery after his retirement bout, describing his body as "a mess" after decades of wrestling. When asked about the future of the Tiger Mask character, he stated, "It would have to be someone that has Sayama's accuracy, the weight of what he did, the attitude and the scariness," indicating only a wrestler of that calibre could continue the legacy.