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WWE Plotting Out Retirement Plans For AJ Styles I Report
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- WWE Plotting Out Retirement Plans For AJ Styles I Report
AJ Styles has officially put a date on the end of his career, confirming that he plans to retire in 2026, and WWE is reportedly already making preparations to ensure his farewell is a significant event.
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio , conversations have already begun on how to end Styles' career. "There is a plan in play for how to handle AJ Styles' retirement in 2026." While the specifics are not yet finalized, the company is committed to giving him a proper send-off. Meltzer added, "It's not fully locked in or anything, but the idea is, 'We're gonna do something.'"
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The internal belief within WWE is that Styles is firm on his decision, with Meltzer stating, "So yeah, they believe he's retiring next year." During an appearance on the WWE Crown Jewel kickoff show, Styles spoke about his decision, citing his age and a desire to step away from the ring before his performance declines.
AJ Styles' Intentions
Credit: WWE
Styles explained that the physical demands of wrestling for over two decades are catching up to him and that his priorities have shifted towards his family. "I'm getting old, folks. Listen, if I could find the fountain of youth and take a couple of sips, I'd wrestle for the rest of my life. But you know, I am getting older, and the fear of embarrassing myself is getting closer," he said.
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He elaborated on his motivation, emphasizing that the ultimate goal of a long career in the business is to be able to enjoy life after wrestling with his loved ones. "There comes a time in a man's life when he has to take care of business, but when business is done, it's time to take care of his family. I need to spend time with my family," Styles stated. "The whole idea of wrestling and having an amazing future in this business is to be able to retire one day, and in 2026, I will retire."
Styles' career has spanned the globe, with championship success in every major promotion he has competed in, including TNA, NJPW, and ROH. Since his WWE debut at the 2016 Royal Rumble, he has become a two-time WWE Champion and a Grand Slam Champion.
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