Karl Anderson says the writing was on the wall for AJ Styles long before the official announcement that he’d be retiring was made public. The “Phenomenal One” had previously revealed that 2026 would officially mark his final run as an in-ring competitor. He explained that years on the road had taken their toll and that he wanted to shift his focus toward his family life.
Speaking on a recent edition of his “Talk’n Shop” podcast, Karl Anderson shared details of a candid backstage conversation that changed his perspective. The discussion made him realize the retirement was very real and not just a storyline angle. Anderson admitted that he initially doubted the severity of the situation.
“We get to the back, I said, ‘AJ! I did not know you were really gonna retire,’” Anderson recalled. Styles was surprised by his friend’s reaction. “He goes, ‘Really!?’ I said, ‘Yeah. What do you mean “really,” AJ? We haven’t spoke. How am I supposed to know if you’re really gonna retire or not?’”
Styles then provided a sobering explanation of his physical condition. “And he said, ‘Dude, I have to. My neck is hurting too bad. I’m beat up. It’s time. I want to help the next generation.’” Anderson immediately realized his mistake. “And I go, ‘Well, I didn’t really believe it… and now I gotta’ eat a lot of crow, pal.’”
Styles himself recently elaborated on that exact mindset during an appearance on the “RAW Recap” podcast. He pushed back on the idea that he could have stretched his career out a few more years for the sake of the fans. He explained his desire to leave a positive lasting impression.
“Why is now the right time to retire? I mean, now’s the right time to retire so I don’t make a fool out of myself, so I don’t embarrass myself,” Styles stated honestly. “I’m on the verge of doing just that. Now’s the time. It’s not easy, mind you, but it’s the time.”
Styles officially retired following a brutal match against Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble. The legendary performer received a massive tribute on the February 23 episode of Monday Night Raw in his home state of Georgia. The broadcast ended with The Undertaker surprisingly announcing that Styles will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
The Hall of Fame ceremony will take place during WrestleMania 42 weekend in Las Vegas. Before the roster heads to Nevada, they must navigate the Elimination Chamber premium live event. The broadcast is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, streaming live from the United Center in Chicago.
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