In a recent interview, WWE veteran AJ Styles expressed his thoughts on the current state of WrestleMania, suggesting that the event has lost some of its former prestige. The 43-year-old wrestling legend, known for his storied career in both TNA and WWE, announced his retirement at the 2024 Royal Rumble, but not before sharing his candid opinions on the evolution of the world’s biggest stage.
A Changing WrestleMania Landscape
AJ Styles, a multiple-time world champion and one of the most beloved performers in the modern era, has seen the rise and fall of various wrestling promotions and the transformation of the industry as a whole. However, when asked about the current state of WrestleMania, he revealed a more nuanced view.
“WrestleMania used to be this special event where you’d have all the top talent coming together, a culmination of months of hard work and dedication,” Styles said in the interview. “But over the years, I think it’s lost some of that luster. The event has become a bit more commercialized, and the importance of it seems to be shifting.”
Styles’ comments sparked a lively debate among wrestling fans and insiders, with some agreeing that the event’s prestige has diminished while others argued that WrestleMania remains the pinnacle of professional wrestling. While Styles’ statement may have been surprising to some, it’s clear that the changing landscape of the industry has had a significant impact on the way events like WrestleMania are perceived.
Embracing a New Chapter in His Career
AJ Styles’ recent retirement announcement came as a shock to fans, but it was clear that the veteran wrestler had been contemplating his next move for some time. In the same interview, Styles revealed that his decision to retire at the Royal Rumble was a deliberate choice, one that allowed him to go out on his own terms.
“Retiring at the Royal Rumble was poetic, you know?” Styles said with a smile. “It felt like a fitting end to my career. I’ve always been one to do things my own way, and this was my way of saying goodbye to the world of professional wrestling. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have had such a long and successful career, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for me.”
Styles’ decision to retire at the age of 43 has raised eyebrows in the wrestling community, with some questioning whether he has truly hung up his boots for good. However, sources close to the WWE have confirmed that Styles is committed to his retirement and is looking forward to exploring new opportunities outside of the ring.
A Lasting Legacy
AJ Styles’ impact on the world of professional wrestling cannot be overstated. His incredible in-ring performances, charismatic personality, and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among the all-time greats. While his comments on WrestleMania may have been surprising, they serve as a reminder that even the most legendary performers have their own opinions and perspectives on the industry.
As Styles embarks on the next chapter of his life, fans and fellow wrestlers alike will be watching with interest to see what he has in store. Will he remain involved in the wrestling industry in some capacity, or will he pursue new passions and interests? One thing is certain: AJ Styles will always be remembered as one of the greatest performers in the history of professional wrestling.
Backstage Reaction to Styles’ Comments
According to a WWE insider, Styles’ comments on WrestleMania have sparked a lively debate among the company’s top talent.
“AJ’s comments have definitely started a conversation among the locker room,” the source revealed. “Some guys agree with him, while others think he’s being too harsh on the event. At the end of the day, though, it’s all about perspective. AJ’s been around the block a few times, and he knows what it takes to make a successful event. His opinions carry weight, and we’re all listening.”
As the wrestling world continues to evolve, it’s clear that AJ Styles will remain a respected and beloved figure, both in and out of the ring. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of wrestlers to come, and his impact on the industry will be felt for years to come.