WWE star could return to SmackDown in Ohio

The prelude to WWE Wrestlepalooza keeps adding assets

Shinsuke Nakamura has been seen in Toledo, Ohio, where the WWE show will take place

WWE SmackDown
Photo Credit: WWE.com
Sebastián Martínez
Sebastián Martínez
Published 09/19/2025

Shinsuke Nakamura, absent from WWE television in recent months, was seen by fans in Ohio during Thursday night, indicating that he is in Toledo for SmackDown. The news has been confirmed by PW Insider this morning.

Nakamura has not competed since June, although he is announced for the WWE tour in Japan next month. His presence in Toledo could mark the beginning of his return to television action, although the company has not yet confirmed it officially.

Shinsuke Nakamura, who has recently not appeared on WWE television, was seen tonight by fans in Ohio, so he is in the city to attend SmackDown in Toledo.

For several weeks, there has been speculation about Shinsuke Nakamura's departure. However, despite his last run not working out, it seems that WWE will continue to use the Japanese wrestler, especially to strengthen the Asian market, which continues to resist for the company.

Friday Night SmackDown episode tonight will take place at the Huntington Center in Toledo, OH, and can be seen on Netflix internationally and on USA Network in the United States. As usual, Solowrestling will provide live coverage of the show.