AJ Styles announced during the Crown Jewel kickoff show that he plans to retire from in-ring competition in 2026. He said, “I’m getting old … the fear of embarrassing myself is getting closer,” and emphasized his desire to spend more time with his family as a reason for stepping away.
He added that while he’d wrestle forever if he could, there comes a point when a person must “take care of business” and make room for life beyond the ring. Styles is expected to still appear at WrestleMania 42 and may shift into a behind-the-scenes role once his active career ends.