AJ Styles, a celebrated WWE star known for his remarkable achievements, is signaling that his wrestling career is approaching its end. The 48-year-old Phenomenal One recently hinted at retirement in an Instagram post, capturing the attention of fans and fellow wrestlers alike. The discussion around AJ Styles nearing wrestling retirement has sparked emotional responses within the wrestling community.
AJ Styles Reflects on Approaching Retirement
Since joining WWE in 2016, AJ Styles has claimed multiple titles, including two WWE Championships, an Intercontinental Championship, and a United States Championship. Despite his ongoing success, Styles has acknowledged that age is impacting his performance. In a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet, he expressed that he does not intend to continue wrestling until age 50, citing the natural decline in stamina as a major factor.
“I will not wrestle to 50, I promise you that… Things aren’t as easy as they used to be. The first thing you lose as you get older is your stamina…” said Styles. —AJ Styles, WWE Star
This candid admission highlights the physical toll wrestling takes on athletes and emphasizes why AJ is contemplating stepping away sooner rather than later.
AEW Star Brian Cage Shares Emotional Response
The Instagram post from AJ Styles featured an hourglass with his personal logo replacing the sand, symbolizing the limited time left in his in-ring career. Among the comments, AEW’s Brian Cage, known as “The Machine,” conveyed heartfelt emotion, describing Styles as his dream opponent and lamenting the thought of Styles wrestling his final match.
Cage’s reaction underscores AJ Styles’ impact across wrestling promotions and the respect he commands among contemporaries. Many speculate that Styles could have a memorable run in AEW before retiring, as his style and skill would complement its roster perfectly. Matches against top names such as Hangman Adam Page, Kenny Omega, Jon Moxley, Kazuchika Okada, MJF, and Swerve Strickland would likely become instant classics cherished by fans.
What Lies Ahead for AJ Styles and Wrestling Fans
The prospect of AJ Styles’ retirement marks a poignant moment in professional wrestling history. As he nears this transition, fans and fellow wrestlers are preparing to honor his legacy and contributions to the sport. Whether Styles chooses to have a brief tenure in AEW or retires from the industry altogether, his departure will leave a lasting impact.
His decision will influence upcoming storylines and open opportunities for emerging talent to rise. For now, the wrestling world watches closely as AJ Styles navigates his final chapters, embodying the perseverance and passion that defined his career.
