Shinsuke Nakamura Stat Proves He Is “Not Over,” WWE Veteran Says

Shinsuke Nakamura is one of the most captivating and charismatic superstars in WWE. Known for his electric entrance, hard-hitting Strong Style, and unforgettable matches, Nakamura has a resume that places him among the elite of modern professional wrestling. However, recent discussions around his win/loss record have raised questions about his current status and effectiveness as a top-tier performer in WWE.

According to former WWE writer Vince Russo, a startling statistic from Nakamura’s 2024 matches highlights a troubling trend in his career trajectory: Nakamura has lost 52 out of 56 matches this year, including live events. This abysmal win/loss record suggests deeper issues in WWE’s booking strategies and raises doubts about his connection with the audience—a critical aspect of success in professional wrestling.

Vince Russo on Why Nakamura’s Record Reflects Poor Booking

On Sportskeeda’s “The Wrestling Outlaws”, Vince Russo shared his perspective on Nakamura’s standing within WWE. He argued that a win/loss record like Nakamura’s isn’t merely a number; it’s a reflection of WWE’s failure to maintain the superstar’s credibility. Russo stated:

“These guys have these horrible win/loss records. They don’t protect them when they lose! They just beat these guys clean, and then you wonder why you’ve got four guys like this that are not over.”

In wrestling jargon, being “over” means resonating with fans—earning their cheers, boos, or any strong emotional reaction. A wrestler who is not “over” struggles to maintain their relevance, sell tickets, or draw viewers to weekly television programs and premium live events. For Nakamura, a superstar who once stood as one of WWE’s most unique attractions, the numbers suggest a diminishing connection with fans.

The Importance of Win/Loss Records in Wrestling

While professional wrestling is scripted entertainment, win/loss records still hold weight in shaping a wrestler’s career. A strong record often signifies dominance, momentum, and importance in ongoing storylines. Conversely, frequent losses—especially those presented without context or storyline justification—can diminish a wrestler’s perceived value.

For Shinsuke Nakamura, his poor record may give fans the impression that he is no longer a credible threat in WWE’s competitive landscape. Even with his United States Championship win at Survivor Series: WarGames, the statistic casts doubt on his overall momentum and suggests inconsistent booking.

Protecting a Wrestler’s Character in Defeat

Vince Russo also highlighted an essential element of wrestling storytelling: protecting a wrestler’s character, even in defeat. During his time as a writer in the late 1990s, Russo worked on crafting stories that allowed wrestlers to lose without losing credibility. He cited Jeff Jarrett as an example. Despite Jarrett’s struggles with a poor win/loss ratio, his character was safeguarded in a way that maintained audience interest and credibility.

Russo compared this to the current treatment of talents like Dominik Mysterio, Finn Balor, JD McDonagh, and Nakamura. These superstars often lose in ways that fail to protect their personas, leading to a steady erosion of their standing in the eyes of the fans.

What’s Next for Nakamura?

Shinsuke Nakamura burst onto the WWE scene with immense fanfare, earning a massive following during his tenure in NXT and early years on the main roster. His 2018 Royal Rumble victory and subsequent WrestleMania match against AJ Styles remain career highlights. However, the recent stats tell a different story—one of a superstar struggling to reclaim his former glory.

If WWE wants to reinvigorate Nakamura’s career, a shift in creative strategy is necessary. This could include:

• Storylines that highlight his unique skill set: Nakamura’s martial arts-inspired “Strong Style” sets him apart. WWE could emphasize his striking ability and charismatic persona in feuds where his strengths shine.

• Consistent booking: Even in losses, Nakamura’s matches should tell a story that keeps him looking strong. For instance, interference, distractions, or controversial finishes could help protect his character.

• Opportunities to connect with fans: Whether as a heel or face, Nakamura thrives on audience engagement. WWE must find ways to reinvigorate his connection with fans, possibly through revamped promos or more engaging rivalries.

Shinsuke Nakamura’s win/loss record in 2024 has sparked concerns among fans and industry insiders about his current role in WWE. Vince Russo’s critique sheds light on the broader issue of how inconsistent booking can derail a wrestler’s momentum. For Nakamura, the path forward may require WWE to rethink its approach, ensuring that he remains a vital part of its roster.

Whether through stronger storytelling, protected losses, or a renewed push, Shinsuke Nakamura’s career revival is not out of reach. WWE must recognize the immense talent Nakamura brings and work to restore his credibility and connection with the audience. After all, for someone of Nakamura’s caliber, the phrase “not over” should never define his legacy.