The WWE world bids farewell to a legend as AJ Styles takes his final bow in Japan, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and fellow wrestlers alike. But this emotional goodbye is more than just a wrestler's retirement; it's a testament to the global impact of professional wrestling and the enduring connections it fosters.
Sean Rueter, a seasoned wrestling journalist, reflects on Styles' illustrious career, which has captivated fans since WrestleMania I. As Styles prepares to face John Cena in one of Cena's final matches, he reveals his plans to retire from the ring by the end of next year. This announcement sets the stage for a poignant farewell tour, with Japan being a pivotal stop.
Japan holds a special place in Styles' heart, and his career trajectory. During his TNA prime, Styles occasionally wrestled in Japan, but it was his stint in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) from 2014 to 2016 that truly elevated his status. As the leader of Bullet Club and IWGP Heavyweight champion, he caught the eye of WWE, who saw the potential of 'The Phenomenal One' as a main eventer.
On October 18th, at the Supershow in Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan, Styles defeated Kofi Kingston and shared a heartfelt moment with Pro Wrestling NOAH's Naomichi Marufuji. But the real tribute was yet to come. After the main event, CM Punk brought Styles to the ring, a momentous occasion given their past differences. Punk acknowledged the significance of Styles' time in Japan, and the crowd erupted in appreciation.
Styles, ever the humble wrestler, expressed his gratitude to the Japanese fans in both English and Japanese. He asked his colleague and occasional rival, Shinsuke Nakamura, to translate his heartfelt message. Nakamura's words, spoken in Japanese, resonated deeply: a message of respect, passion, and the unbreakable bond between wrestler and fan. Styles thanked the fans for their unwavering support, admitting that his WWE career might not have been possible without their love. He vowed that even after leaving the ring, a piece of his heart would forever remain with the Japanese fans.
This heartwarming farewell left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it. But here's where it gets controversial: is AJ Styles' retirement truly the end of an era, or just the beginning of a new chapter in the ever-evolving world of wrestling? What do you think the future holds for this wrestling legend?
