Another WWE Legend Could Be Done Soon After AJ Styles’ Shocking Retirement
AJ Styles’ emotional exit after the 2026 Royal Rumble may not be the last major goodbye WWE fans see this year. Following Styles’ loss to GUNTHER at the Royal Rumble, the former world champion officially stepped away from in-ring competition, joining recent retirees John Cena and Goldberg. Now, a new name is being whispered as a potential next farewell — Rey Mysterio.
The discussion picked up steam after the January 26 episode of Monday Night Raw, where Mysterio faced Austin Theory in singles action. Throughout the match, the WWE Hall of Famer appeared to be in visible discomfort, repeatedly clutching his left leg, shoulder, and ribs. The physical toll of the bout was hard to ignore.
Former WWE star Stevie Richards later broke down the match on his YouTube podcast, closely analyzing what went wrong and what it could mean for Mysterio’s future. Speaking with James Romero, Richards suggested that retirement may not be far off for the lucha legend.
“But Rey is in such a weird place,” Richards said. “He may be the next one to retire, for all we know.” Richards also pointed out that at 51 years old, Mysterio is clearly in the final chapter of his legendary career.
What makes the situation even more striking is that, despite the apparent injuries on Raw, Rey Mysterio still competed just days later in the Men’s Royal Rumble match on January 31. Entering at number four, he lasted nearly three minutes before being eliminated by Oba Femi, who entered at number one.
The 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble was ultimately won by Roman Reigns, with GUNTHER finishing as runner-up. Je’Von Evans stole headlines with a breakout performance, lasting 40 minutes and 58 seconds to earn Iron Man honors.
With AJ Styles already gone and several icons calling it a career in recent years, the question now looms large: is WWE preparing for another legendary retirement sooner than expected? Rey Mysterio’s next move could answer that very soon.
