During a recent guesting on the “Insight” podcast, WWE’s Grand Slam Champion and veteran ring entertainer, AJ Styles revealed his ambition to retire from professional wrestling before hitting the age of 50.
He is set to commemorate his 48th birthday in the coming June. The podcast episode has some striking highlights, and below are few of them:
When asked about his thoughts on the longevity of his wrestling career, Styles responded: “I’ve given it much thought, perhaps more than I should have. Ideally, I should have known what I was doing by now. But it’s difficult because I relish it so much, and I enjoy the company of my colleagues. Don’t misunderstand, I have a great love for my home, but the chance to see these people, their success and their growing smiles, it’s something else. Watching fellows like Roman, for instance, his selling prowess, it’s just at another level. Similarly, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, amongst others, they’ve all stepped up. Witnessing them progress into incredible Superstars is highly impressive. Witnessing Gunther shed a substantial amount of weight to reach the spot of the Heavyweight Champion, it’s unbelievable. And then there’s Cody, observing his journey to get to where he is, and the efforts he’s putting now, he’s definitely the one. Seeing their drive and their persistence, despite the physical toll, is heartening.”
Speaking about not extending his wrestling career into his 50s, he affirmed: “Yes, you heard it right. I’ve been constantly saying it. I’ve iterated this several times, but I am certain I will not be in the ring at 50, I assure you of that.”
Regarding his plans for a final opponent, Styles seems to have no particular wrestler in mind. He mentions: “No, I don’t have any contender in mind. There’s an idea I have, somewhat related to if I could persuade Undertaker for a final showdown, but I won’t be sharing that. It’s an idea that I believe encompasses the essence of AJ Styles, we’ll see if it materializes. If it does, you’ll definitely know.”