WWE icon John Cena recently spoke about AJ Styles, who retired from professional wrestling earlier this year. Cena highlighted the significance of Styles in his own career, recalling their many memorable matches and the respect they share as competitors.
Cena and Styles have a rich history within WWE, having faced off in multiple singles matches that have become classics. AJ Styles gained widespread recognition after their legendary bout at SummerSlam 2016, which solidified his status as a bona fide megastar in the wrestling world. They met again in another thrilling match at the Royal Rumble in 2017, and during Cena’s farewell tour, they delivered one of their finest performances against each other at Crown Jewel.
In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Cena described AJ Styles as an important chapter in his professional journey. He emphasized the care and thought that went into their final match in Perth, wanting to honor Styles properly as a respected wrestler and person. Cena said he appreciated witnessing AJ’s development firsthand and aimed to give him a fitting send-off.
“So I guess what AJ Styles means to me is that you can do it at a high level for a long time and be kind. And that’s super important. I was privy to a bit of inside track on AJ’s career path, obviously working with him and discussing what we could physically do and not do, so I really wanted to do my best in Perth, to try to give him a send off that I thought was worthy of such a gentleman,” Cena said. (H/T SI.com)
WWE Honors AJ Styles in His Home State
This week’s Monday Night RAW took place in Georgia, AJ Styles’ home state, where WWE dedicated the show to celebrating the legacy of The Phenomenal One. Fans witnessed heartfelt tributes acknowledging the impact Styles has had on the wrestling world throughout his career.
During the event, AJ Styles addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for the support he received over the years. The moment grew even more memorable when The Undertaker appeared unexpectedly to announce that Styles will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026, cementing his status as an all-time great.
The Lasting Importance of AJ Styles’ Career
The respect between John Cena and AJ Styles highlights the meaningful connections forged through years of competition at the highest level. Both men have left significant marks on WWE, with classic matches that remain etched in fans’ memories. As Styles heads toward the Hall of Fame, this period reflects the culmination of a remarkable career and the enduring influence he holds within the wrestling community.
The recognition and farewells serve not only as a tribute to past achievements but also as a sign of the ongoing legacy Styles will maintain in WWE history. Fans and wrestlers alike eagerly anticipate his formal induction and the stories that will continue to inspire future generations.
So nice that @AJStylesOrg got to celebrate his career with his family last night 🫶 pic.twitter.com/oCNPlCmXPZ
— WWE (@WWE) February 24, 2026
