AJ Styles concluded his illustrious wrestling career at the WWE Royal Rumble, where he faced off against Gunther in a match that determined the future of his career. Following this pivotal moment, Styles officially announced his retirement during Monday’s WWE Raw, delivering an emotional farewell to the fans and leaving his gloves in the ring as a poignant symbol of his departure.
In an interview segment on Raw Recap, Styles reflected on his choice to retire at this stage, emphasizing the importance of stepping away before his performance diminished. “Now is the right time to retire so I don’t make a fool out of myself, so I don’t embarrass myself. I’m on the verge of doing just that. It’s not easy, mind you, but it’s time,” he expressed, highlighting the difficulty of the decision.
The 48-year-old wrestling icon made his in-ring debut back in 1998 and has since become a beloved figure in the industry. During his final appearance on Raw, it was revealed that Styles is set to receive the honor of induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2026, a testament to his significant contributions to professional wrestling.
Additionally, Styles shared insights into his decision to retire at Royal Rumble rather than at the more grandiose event of WrestleMania, which adds further depth to his thoughtful approach to concluding his career. His retirement marks the end of an era, but it also paves the way for future generations of wrestlers to follow in his footsteps, with his legacy sure to inspire countless fans and aspiring athletes alike.