AJ Styles Confirms 2026 Retirement
WWE superstar AJ Styles, one of professional wrestling’s most celebrated talents, has officially confirmed that he will retire from in-ring competition in 2026. Styles made the announcement during the Crown Jewel Kickoff Show in Perth, Australia, citing his age and a desire to spend more time with his family as primary reasons for stepping away. “I am getting older. The fear of embarrassing myself is getting closer,” Styles candidly admitted. The 48-year-old also delivered emotional goodbyes to fans in Australia, strongly hinting that recent appearances down under might have been his last.
Booker T’s Take: “It’s Time”
On his Hall of Fame podcast, WWE legend Booker T weighed in on Styles’ impending retirement. Booker T, a veteran who transitioned from the ring to commentary and other roles, expressed full support for Styles’ decision. “When you hear AJ say it’s time, you know he means it. It’s time to wrap it up,” Booker remarked. He added that Styles has given fans two decades of unforgettable moments, and there’s no shame in walking away while still at the top of his game.
Booker T also predicted that Styles will have a long future in the wrestling business just not as an in-ring competitor. “Guys like AJ, they don’t just disappear. They evolve. I see him being a huge asset behind the scenes, maybe in NXT or as a producer,” Booker said. This sentiment was echoed by Styles himself, who has previously mentioned a desire to stay with WWE in a different capacity after hanging up his boots.
Behind the Scenes: What’s Next for The Phenomenal One?
According to a WWE insider familiar with talent relations, the company is already discussing potential post-retirement roles for Styles. “AJ’s knowledge is invaluable. We’re looking at everything from coaching at the Performance Center to a possible on-air role. He’s earned the right to choose his path,” the source revealed. This mirrors the career trajectories of other legends like Shawn Michaels and Triple H, who transitioned from performers to key figures in WWE’s creative and developmental systems.
With Styles’ retirement now on the horizon, speculation is mounting about how WWE will handle his final run. Will he embark on a global farewell tour à la John Cena, or will his exit be more understated, with select high-profile matches leading to a major sendoff at WrestleMania? No official schedule has been announced, but each Styles appearance now feels like part of a larger goodbye for fans around the world.
AJ Styles’ Legacy: A Career for the Ages
AJ Styles’ journey is the stuff of wrestling lore. From his early days in TNA and New Japan Pro-Wrestling to his WWE debut at the 2016 Royal Rumble, Styles has consistently delivered in the ring, earning the nickname “The Phenomenal One.” His resume includes multiple world championships, classic rivalries, and matches considered among the best of the modern era.
Styles’ ability to reinvent himself from high-flying daredevil to ruthless veteran has endeared him to fans across generations. His recent bout with John Cena at Crown Jewel: Perth was a shining example of his enduring talent, proving he can still main-event major shows at the highest level. As he nears retirement, every Styles match is being savored by fans who recognize they’re witnessing the final act of a storied career.
Fan Reactions and Industry Speculation
The wrestling community has been vocal about Styles’ retirement plans. On social media and fan forums, many are calling for WWE to give Styles a proper sendoff—perhaps a farewell tour or a marquee match at WrestleMania 2026. There’s also debate over who should be his final opponent. Some fans are demanding a dream match with CM Punk, despite their limited history together, arguing that two of the industry’s best should collide before Styles retires.
Others suggest that WWE should honor Styles by having him put over a rising star, ensuring his legacy lives on in the next generation. Regardless of the specifics, one thing is clear: AJ Styles’ retirement will be a defining moment for WWE and its fanbase.
What AJ Styles’ Retirement Means for WWE
Styles’ departure from active competition will leave a noticeable void in WWE’s roster. For years, he has been a reliable main-eventer and a locker room leader, respected by both peers and management. His absence will force WWE to reshuffle its upper card and find new stars to fill the gap.
However, Styles’ potential transition to a backstage role could be a boon for WWE’s future. His experience mentoring younger talent whether in NXT or as a producer could help shape the next wave of WWE superstars. According to sources close to the situation, Styles has already expressed interest in helping develop new talent, viewing it as a way to give back to the business that made him a global icon.
Conclusion: The End of an Era, But Not the End of AJ Styles
AJ Styles’ decision to retire in 2026 marks the end of an extraordinary in-ring career, but not the end of his influence in professional wrestling. As Booker T noted, it’s time for Styles to step away on his own terms, with his legacy intact. WWE is preparing for his next chapter, and fans worldwide are eager to see how “The Phenomenal One” will be celebrated in his final months as an active competitor.
One thing is certain: AJ Styles’ impact on WWE and the wrestling business as a whole will be felt long after his final bell. Whether in the ring, at the commentary desk, or behind the scenes, the Phenomenal Era is far from over it’s just evolving.