On his Hall of Fame podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Booker T shared his thoughts on the recent news that AJ Styles is planning to retire from full-time wrestling in 2026. Booker T agreed with the decision, stating that “it’s time” for the veteran to step away and predicted a long future for him in the business behind the scenes.
“Okay, you know what? It’s time to wrap it up. It is. It’s time,” Booker T said. He compared it to his own career, noting that he also had to decide when to hang up his boots. “For me, I said 40 was going to be my number. And just like AJ, I probably got to 40 and said, ‘Man, I’m still better than all these suckers’… and I pushed it for five more years.”
He praised Styles for his longevity and for maintaining his health throughout a lengthy and physically career. “For him to have lasted this long, props. It’s time to wrap it up, man, and live on the fruits of the labor,” he stated. “Seriously, he doesn’t have to do anything ever again.”
Booker T also expressed his belief that Styles will remain a valuable asset to the wrestling industry long after his in-ring career is over. “One thing about AJ Styles, too, he’s one of those carpenters that we’re going to need in this business for many, many years,” he said. “So when he retires, he’s still going to have a job doing something in this business, I would imagine, just because he’s one of those great minds that this business definitely can utilize.”
AJ Styles, a two-time WWE Champion, recently revealed his plans to retire in 2026. He is coming off a loss to John Cena at the Crown Jewel premium live event.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit Hall of Fame with an h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
