AJ Styles, a prominent figure in professional wrestling, recently expressed his view that WrestleMania, once the most prestigious event in the sport, has diminished in significance. Speaking on Raw Talk, Styles shared his perspective on the event’s evolution, highlighting a loss of excitement that once made WrestleMania stand out. This change in his perception comes as he approaches retirement, reflecting on his career milestones and decisions.
Examining Styles’ Retirement and Career Highlights
Styles spoke candidly about nearly ending his career at WrestleMania 41 in a match against Logan Paul but ultimately deciding against it, feeling it was not the right moment. He recalled returning from injury to participate in that event, remarking on the lack of buildup to the match.
“It was coming back from an injury to WrestleMania to a match that didn’t, to me, have much build and WrestleMania,”
Styles said.
“Listen, I’m sorry to say, used to be the most prestigious PLE or pay-per-view, whatever you wanna call it. But to me, it’s kind of lost its luster a little bit. But as far as the Royal Rumble, that’s special to me, because that’s where I made my debut. So to be able to end where I started, it’s poetic,”
he added. These reflections came ahead of his retirement match at the 2026 Royal Rumble.
Honoring Styles’ Legacy and WWE Career Closure
AJ Styles concluded his WWE career at the 2026 Royal Rumble, where he faced Gunther. The event was marked by a heartfelt farewell on WWE Raw, held in Styles’ home state of Georgia, with enthusiastic support from both his peers and the WWE Universe. His family joined him in the ring to celebrate his career. Additionally, The Undertaker announced Styles would be inducted into the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame alongside Stephanie McMahon, marking a significant recognition of his contributions to the industry.
Upcoming WrestleMania 42 Matches Take Shape
As WrestleMania 42 approaches, the WWE has finalized several key matchups following the Elimination Chamber event. Rhea Ripley is set to challenge Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship. Randy Orton earned his opportunity by winning the men’s chamber, striving for his record 15th title reign. Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre will face off on SmackDown, with the potential for Rhodes to enter WrestleMania holding the championship. Additional headline matches include CM Punk versus Roman Reigns and Stephanie Vaquer taking on Liv Morgan, setting an intense stage for the event.
WrestleMania’s Future Amid Shifting Fan Expectations
AJ Styles’ remarks about WrestleMania losing some of its original prestige underscore the evolving landscape of professional wrestling’s biggest show. While some traditional fans and wrestlers view the event with nostalgia, new storylines and championship battles continue to shape its future. As Styles passes the torch, WrestleMania 42 aims to deliver fresh excitement, with high-stakes matchups that could restore some of the energy Styles feels has waned. Wrestling audiences worldwide will be watching closely to see if the event can regain the luster that once defined it.
