AJ Styles is finally putting a timeline on the end of his run.
The WWE veteran, who’s been called “The Phenomenal One” for most of his 25-year career, says 2026 will be his final year inside the ropes.
Speaking ahead of WWE’s Super Show Japan, Styles made it clear that his last match in Japan is already set. “I’m really excited, and I’m really looking forward to it because this will probably be my last match in Japan,” he said to Tokyo Sports (with a translation provided by CBS Sports). “I am planning to retire soon and may not return to Japan before retirement.”
Styles has been hinting at this move all year. He previously shared an image of an hourglass on social media and openly admitted that his time was running out. “I will definitely retire within the next year,” he told Tokyo Sports. “I don’t want the fans to see me as anyone other than AJ Styles. That’s the main reason. I’ve decided to retire before my body can no longer move.”
Even with the countdown on, there are still big matches left. Styles is scheduled to face John Cena at Crown Jewel as part of Cena’s farewell tour. WrestleMania in Las Vegas next April could also feature Styles, though his involvement hasn’t been locked in yet. “I think I’ll probably appear at WrestleMania, but it’s not confirmed yet,” he said.
Retirement won’t necessarily mean leaving the business altogether. Styles admitted he’s interested in staying with WWE once he hangs it up. “I haven’t decided yet, but I think I’ll probably work for WWE,” he explained. “It might be good to train young wrestlers to be worthy of being on the main roster.”
The news hits especially hard for fans of Japanese wrestling. Styles’ years in New Japan Pro Wrestling cemented him as a global star, highlighted by his IWGP Heavyweight Championship wins and his rivalry with Hiroshi Tanahashi.
With Tanahashi also planning to retire in 2026, their parallel exits close out a chapter of modern wrestling. “Tanahashi is a really great player, and I was really honored to be able to fight him,” Styles said.