AJ Styles Reacts To Major Former Rival’s Upcoming Retirement

WWE star AJ Styles has reacted to the upcoming retirement of a major former rival amid his own retirement teases.

New Japan Pro Wrestling announced last year that legendary former IWGP World Champion and current President of the company Hiroshi Tanahashi would be competing in his final match at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 6, 2026.

During his time in New Japan Pro Wrestling, AJ Styles faced off against Tanahashi in a number of legendary encounters, and Styles has now reacted to Tanahashi’s upcoming retirement.

Speaking to Abema, AJ praised Tanahashi for having an ‘unbelievable career’, and being honored to have faced off against him.

He said:

“Oh, Tanahashi’s going to retire in January? Oh wow! I mean, that’s good because you want to be able to retire, so.

“He’s had an unbelievable career. One of the best I’ve ever wrestled and been in the ring with. Such a great competitor, so he has definitely earned the right to retire, and I’m honored to be able to say that I’ve wrestled him.”

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