At the WWE Australia Supershow in Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on October 15, 2025, “The Phenomenal” AJ Styles gave fans a heartfelt farewell that hinted at the close of an era. After defeating El Grande Americano in a hard-fought match, Styles took a rare moment on the microphone, emotionally acknowledging the likelihood that Australian audiences would not see him compete live again in the traditional wrestling singlet.
A Living Legend’s Goodbye “Down Under”
AJ Styles’ retirement has been gradually unfolding throughout WWE’s recent global events. Following his intense and celebrated match with John Cena at WWE Crown Jewel: Perth a match widely praised as one of the best premium live event bouts in recent memory Styles has been open about his plans to step away from in-ring competition. At the Australia Supershow, he told the crowd, “I just want to thank you guys for cheering and being some of the best fans in the world… I’m probably not going to see you again in a singlet like this anymore.”
This candid promo was brief but resonated deeply with fans and wrestlers alike, cementing his status as one of WWE’s most respected and beloved performers. The sentiment was delivered without grand theatrics but with genuine emotion, reflecting Styles’ humility and profound gratitude for his career’s journey.
Context Behind the Retirement Announcement
AJ Styles officially confirmed his retirement plans during the media event leading up to Crown Jewel in Perth on October 11, 2025. The 48-year-old WWE veteran cited age and the fear of “embarrassing” himself in the ring as motivating factors, alongside a desire to spend more time with his family. This retirement timeline places his active WWE career endpoint sometime in 2026, making the Australia Supershow his potential last live in-ring appearance in that region.
Notably, Styles has quietly aligned his exit timeline close to that of John Cena’s retirement tour, with whom he recently shared the ring. Their encounters have been viewed as symbolic passing-of-the-torch moments, celebrating two of WWE’s most enduring icons.
Backstage Perspective: WWE’s Handling of Styles’ Retirement
According to a WWE insider familiar with backstage discussions, there is a mixture of excitement and concern about how WWE will manage AJ Styles’ final run. “The company recognizes Styles’ immense contributions, but there’s pressure to give him a fitting send-off to match his legacy,” the source shared. “After the lukewarm handling of Cena’s retirement, many within WWE are keen not to repeat those mistakes, though it remains to be seen if the booking will reflect that.”
This sense of urgency arises because Styles has consistently been a top-tier performer who often peaked in midcard or upper-midcard roles in recent years, sometimes losing big matches. Fans and critics alike hope that WWE will allow Styles one last meaningful title run or main event spotlight before his exit.
AJ Styles’ Career Highlights and Legacy
AJ Styles debuted in WWE in 2016, quickly establishing himself as a phenomenal talent with multiple WWE Championship reigns. He is celebrated for his in-ring agility, technical prowess, and ability to engage audiences emotionally. His journey from the independent circuit to becoming a global wrestling superstar demonstrates dedication and versatility.
With his retirement imminent, the wrestling world reflects on Styles’ contributions as a defining performer of his generation an inspiration for future stars and a consistent draw for global audiences.
What’s Next for “The Phenomenal One”?
While AJ Styles has not detailed his plans post-retirement explicitly, the wrestling community speculatively views potential paths such as:
Transitioning to a non-wrestling role within WWE, such as mentoring younger talent or producing.
Pursuing opportunities in other wrestling promotions or entertainment sectors on a more limited basis.
Focusing on personal ventures, family, and other passions outside of wrestling.
His sincerity and professionalism suggest that whatever route he takes, it will be marked by the same passion that defined his wrestling career.
Fan Reaction and Future Events
The audience at Rod Laver Arena responded to Styles’ emotional words with a standing ovation and cheers, creating a moment of unity between a wrestling legend and his devoted fans. Given the strong fan support, WWE plans to highlight Styles celebration moments during upcoming programming, ensuring his retirement tour receives respectful coverage.
As Styles himself said, “From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much.” Fans worldwide eagerly await the final chapter of this phenomenal career, hopeful it honors one of the true greats of WWE’s modern era.