In a recent interview, Total Nonstop Action (TNA) veteran Frankie Kazarian sat down with Wrestling Inc.’s Nick Hausman to discuss his long-standing friendship with none other than AJ Styles, a WWE Hall of Famer who shocked the wrestling world by announcing his retirement from in-ring competition earlier this year.
AJ Styles, one of the most decorated and beloved wrestlers in recent history, made headlines in January 2026 when he announced his decision to step away from the ring, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and pursue other passions outside of professional wrestling. Styles’ retirement sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community, with many of his peers and fans taking to social media to express their gratitude and well-wishes.
For Frankie Kazarian, a fellow TNA alumnus and Styles’ longtime friend, the news was not only a surprise but also a poignant reminder of the transience of their profession. “AJ’s retirement was a tough pill to swallow,” Kazarian admitted in his interview. “We’ve been through so much together, both in and out of the ring. He’s one of the most talented individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of sharing a locker room with, and to see him hang up his boots was truly heartbreaking.”
Born Andrew Martin Reynolds on February 2, 1977, in Gainesville, Georgia, AJ Styles began his wrestling career in the late 1990s, working his way up the independent circuit before joining Total Nonstop Action (TNA) in 2002. Styles quickly established himself as one of the company’s top stars, known for his incredible athleticism, technical grappling skills, and charismatic personality.
During his 14-year tenure with TNA, Styles won multiple championships, including the TNA World Heavyweight Championship on a record four occasions. He also made history by becoming the first TNA Champion to win the WWE Championship, a feat he accomplished in 2016 at WrestleMania 32.
Styles’ success in TNA eventually caught the attention of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), which signed him in 2012. Over the course of his eight-year tenure with the company, Styles won multiple championships, including the WWE Championship, the United States Championship, and the Intercontinental Championship. He also earned a reputation as one of the best in-ring performers in the world, known for his high-flying moves and ability to execute complex sequences with ease.
Throughout his illustrious career, Styles has been praised by his peers and fans alike for his work ethic, dedication, and generosity. He has been an inspiration to countless wrestlers, including Kazarian, who has often spoken about the impact Styles had on his own career.
“AJ was one of the first people to take me under his wing when I first started out in TNA,” Kazarian recalled. “He showed me the ropes, taught me how to navigate the business side of things, and was always there to lend a helping hand. He’s more than just a friend; he’s a mentor, a confidant, and a brother.”
Kazarian and Styles’ friendship has been a source of inspiration for fans and wrestlers alike. Their bond is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and a deep understanding of one another’s strengths and weaknesses.
As Styles transitions into the next chapter of his life, Kazarian remains optimistic about his friend’s future. “AJ’s retirement is not an end; it’s a new beginning,” Kazarian said. “He’s got so much to offer outside of the ring, and I have no doubt he’ll continue to make a positive impact on the world. We’ll still be friends, still support each other, and still be there for each other whenever we need it.”
The news of AJ Styles’ retirement has sparked a lively debate among fans and wrestling enthusiasts, with some expressing sadness at the loss of one of the greatest in-ring performers of all time. Others have seen it as an opportunity for Styles to pursue new passions and interests outside of professional wrestling.
On social media, fans have been sharing their favorite AJ Styles moments, from his early days in TNA to his time in the WWE. Many have praised Styles for his dedication, work ethic, and generosity, both in and out of the ring.
As for Kazarian, he remains grateful for the opportunity to have shared the ring with Styles and to have called him a friend. “AJ’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he’s touched, both in and out of the ring,” Kazarian said. “He’s a true legend, and I’m honored to have been a part of his journey.”
In the years to come, Kazarian and Styles will no doubt remain close friends and confidants, supporting each other through the ups and downs of life. As AJ Styles embarks on this new chapter, one thing is certain: his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate generations of wrestlers to come.
FAQ Section
Q: What was AJ Styles’ career highlight?
A: AJ Styles’ career highlight came in 2016 when he became the first TNA Champion to win the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 32.
Q: What is AJ Styles’ retirement status?
A: AJ Styles officially retired from in-ring competition earlier this year, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and pursue other passions outside of professional wrestling.
Q: What is Frankie Kazarian’s take on AJ Styles’ retirement?
A: Frankie Kazarian called AJ Styles’ retirement “heartbreaking,” but also expressed optimism about his friend’s future, stating that it’s a new beginning for Styles to pursue new passions and interests outside of professional wrestling.
Q: What is AJ Styles’ legacy in the world of professional wrestling?
A: AJ Styles is widely regarded as one of the best in-ring performers in the world, known for his incredible athleticism, technical grappling skills, and charismatic personality. He has won multiple championships, including the TNA World Heavyweight Championship and the WWE Championship, and has inspired countless wrestlers with his work ethic, dedication, and generosity.
Q: Will AJ Styles make a comeback in professional wrestling?
A: There is no indication that AJ Styles plans to return to in-ring competition, and he has stated that he is focused on spending time with his family and pursuing new passions outside of professional wrestling.