“Thank You, Japan!” – AJ Styles Breaks Down During Emotional Farewell at WWE SuperShow in Tokyo
AJ Styles couldn’t hold back his emotions in what might have been his final match in Japan. The Phenomenal One received a heartfelt send-off during WWE’s SuperShow in Tokyo on October 18, marking a powerful full-circle moment in his legendary career.
The event, held at the iconic Sumo Hall, carried deep meaning for Styles, who previously announced plans to retire from in-ring competition in 2026. Earlier in the night, he faced Kofi Kingston in a thrilling singles match — and while Styles walked away with the victory, it was what happened after the main event that truly stole the show.
Once the final bell rang, several WWE Superstars returned to the ring to pay tribute to AJ Styles. Fans erupted as Styles was called back out, visibly emotional as he took the microphone. With Shinsuke Nakamura translating his message, Styles thanked the Japanese fans for their unwavering love and support over the years — a crowd that had watched him evolve from New Japan sensation to WWE megastar.

The atmosphere turned electric as chants of “A-J! A-J!” filled the arena. Then, in a powerful moment of respect, CM Punk and Ivar hoisted Styles onto their shoulders, mirroring the traditional Japanese wrestling farewell. It was a scene straight out of wrestling history — one that reminded everyone just how much Styles has meant to the sport.
Before joining WWE, AJ Styles was a cornerstone of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) from 2014 to 2016, where he twice won the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and helped lead the Bullet Club to global fame. His success there made him a household name and paved the way for his eventual WWE dominance.
Though WWE hasn’t officially confirmed if this was AJ Styles’ final match in Japan, the emotion in the air said it all. The Tokyo crowd gave him a standing ovation worthy of a legend — and for one night, time seemed to stop as “The Phenomenal One” said goodbye to the country that helped make him who he is today.
If this truly was his last match in Japan, AJ Styles couldn’t have written a more perfect ending.