AJ Styles has officially ended his legendary WWE career, and tributes from fellow Superstars are pouring in. After nearly a decade of unforgettable moments, the “Phenomenal One” wrapped up his run at the 2024 Royal Rumble, leaving behind a legacy that has forever shaped WWE.
AJ Styles’ Final Match at Royal Rumble 2024
AJ Styles’ WWE journey came full circle on Saturday afternoon at the Royal Rumble, the very event where he made his WWE debut back in 2016. In his last match, he faced the dominant Gunther and passed out in a rear naked choke, marking the end of his 10-year WWE career.
While fans hoped to see Styles compete one more time at WrestleMania, it turns out that his 9th appearance at the grand event in previous years was his last.
Shane McMahon’s Tribute to AJ Styles
One of Styles’ most memorable WrestleMania moments came at WrestleMania 33, where he faced Shane McMahon in Orlando. That match not only earned Styles his first-ever WrestleMania win, but it also set the tone for his future success in WWE.
With AJ’s in-ring career now concluded, Shane McMahon shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, honouring his former opponent:
“AJ Styles will go down in history as one of the greatest in-ring performers ever! Thank you for your friendship and giving it your absolute best to entertain us all every single time you stepped through the ropes… Congratulations on a Phenomenal career.”
Nattie’s Emotional Message: “You Beat The House”
Among the many tributes, Natalya (Nattie) delivered one of the most heartfelt. Both Styles and Nattie came into WWE with something to prove. AJ had already made a name for himself in TNA Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, while Nattie carried the pressure of her famous wrestling family—the Hart Dynasty.
Nattie praised Styles for the way he ended his WWE chapter—on his own terms:
“Congratulations @AJStylesOrg on such a PHENOMENAL career. You did what very few people in sports can do. You really won. You walked away with your head held high and with an unmatched legacy. Honored to call you a friend and an inspiration. ‘YOU BEAT THE HOUSE.’”
AJ Styles’ WWE Legacy
In 10 years, AJ Styles accomplished more than most do in a lifetime:
- 2-time WWE Champion
- 3-time United States Champion
- 1-time Intercontinental Champion
- Headliner at WrestleMania and other major events
- One of the most consistent performers of his era
Whether it was stealing the show with top names like John Cena, Seth Rollins, or Roman Reigns, or helping younger talent shine, Styles did it all with style and professionalism.
What’s Next for AJ Styles?
As of now, Styles hasn’t announced any future plans. But based on his history of adapting and excelling wherever he goes, fans can expect him to stay connected to the wrestling world—possibly in a backstage, trainer, or ambassador role. Whatever he chooses, his impact on the industry is already cemented.
