The Clock is Ticking For The Phenomenal One: AJ Styles Will Be Retiring In 2026

Well, it seems the clock is finally ticking for one of the best to ever do it. The phenomenal AJ Styles has apparently circled a date on his calendar, giving the wrestling world a glimpse into when his legendary career will finally come to a close.

The Tokyo Sports Interview

In a recent chat with Tokyo Sports, Styles, who has been dazzling fans since 1998, dropped the news that he plans to retire within the next year, eyeing 2026 as his final curtain call. Let’s be honest, we’ve heard whispers of his retirement for years, but this feels different. It’s less of a vague “when the time is right” and more of a “the end is nigh.”

“I will probably appear at WrestleMania, but it’s not confirmed yet,.. The details are still undecided, but I will definitely retire within the next year.”

And his reasoning? It’s as admirable as his in-ring work. “I don’t want to show my fans a side of me that isn’t AJ Styles. That’s the main reason. I’ve decided to retire before my body can no longer move.”

Thank goodness for that. Nobody wants to see a legend become a shadow of their former self and it was clear he was nearing the end of his career. AJ Styles has built a legacy on being nothing short of, well, phenomenal. Watching him limp through his greatest hits would be a tragedy. He wants to go out on his terms, at the top of his game, and you have to respect that.

What Does the Final Chapter for AJ Styles Look Like?

So, what does this “farewell tour” entail? Before he rides off into the sunset, he’s got some scores to settle. A massive tie-breaker match against John Cena is already on the books for WWE Crown Jewel in Perth, Australia, on October 11. It’s fitting, really. Two icons of their generation, battling one last time on a global stage. It’s the kind of marquee matchup that befits a legend’s final run.

And while he’s making his rounds in WWE, Styles hasn’t forgotten his roots. He mentioned a desire to share the ring one last time with NJPW president and fellow legend, Hiroshi Tanahashi, who is also planning to retire soon. A match between these two would be pure poetry for anyone who followed their careers in Japan. It’s a long shot, but in wrestling, you never say never. Crazier things have happened. Heck AJ Styles not a few months ago appeared on TNA Slammiversary.

What’s Next After the Final Bell?

Once the gloves are off for good, don’t expect Styles to just disappear. He hinted at sticking around with WWE in a backstage capacity, possibly training the next generation of superstars. Imagine learning the ropes from AJ Styles. The man has been a main-event talent in every major promotion he’s ever worked for—TNA, Ring of Honor, New Japan, and of course, WWE. His mind for the business is second to none, and passing that knowledge down would be an invaluable gift to the future of the sport.

As we gear up for what promises to be an emotional final year, the possibilities are endless. Who will he face? What final dream matches will we get to see? Let’s hope WWE books this retirement tour better than John Cena’s.

For now, all we can do is appreciate every single moment we have left with AJ Styles in the ring. The man has given us 26 years of unforgettable matches and moments. He’s earned the right to write his own ending. And if his career is any indication, it’s going to be phenomenal.