Finn Balor honored AJ Styles with a rare backstage photo following WWE RAW this week, highlighting the deep respect between the two performers. This tribute gained attention amid AJ Styles’ recent retirement, marking a significant moment in professional wrestling history.
AJ Styles concluded his wrestling career after a final match against Gunther at the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, where the Ring General secured a submission with the Sleeper Hold, resulting in Styles passing out. This moment signaled the end of an exceptional era for The Phenomenal One.
Sharing a glimpse behind the scenes on Instagram, Balor posted an image of the gear AJ Styles wore during his tribute segment on Monday’s RAW, accompanying it with a succinct caption that read simply: “P1.”
Shared Journeys from New Japan Pro Wrestling to WWE
Both Balor and Styles have followed parallel paths throughout their wrestling careers, having been part of New Japan Pro Wrestling and members of the Bullet Club before their transitions to WWE. Their shared history reinforces the significance of Balor’s tribute.
JD McDonagh Reflects on AJ Styles’ Impact
Adding to the homage, Finn Balor’s tag team partner and stablemate in Judgment Day, JD McDonagh, expressed admiration for AJ Styles on social media. The Irish wrestler praised Styles’ contributions inside the ring and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete alongside him.
“All any wrestler should ever want is to leave behind a body of work like @ajstylesp1 , and get out with their health. It was an honour to be able to share the ring with one of the greatest of a generation. Thank you for the matches, and thank you for being someone to look up to in the ring and in the locker room,”
— JD McDonagh
AJ Styles’ Upcoming Hall of Fame Induction
AJ Styles is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2026, an announcement revealed by The Undertaker during this week’s RAW. This induction will formally recognize Styles’ lasting influence and celebrated career in professional wrestling.
The outpouring of tributes from Finn Balor, JD McDonagh, and others underscores the respect that AJ Styles commands across the wrestling community, highlighting the end of a remarkable chapter and the beginning of future honors.
