Shinsuke Nakamura recently stirred up excitement by hinting that AJ Styles may retire at the upcoming WWE Royal Rumble. After their match at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event in Montreal, Nakamura shared a now-deleted post on Instagram. He recounted a conversation from last year’s Australia tour, where Styles suggested that the Royal Rumble would be his last event.
Nakamura recalled a moment in a van en route to a meet-and-greet where he asked Styles, “When are you going to retire?” Styles responded, “The Royal Rumble. I’ve already decided.” This revelation has fans buzzing, especially since it could mark the end of Styles’ decade-long journey in WWE, which began at the 2016 Royal Rumble.
Recent data from the WWE Universe shows that Styles has a significant fanbase. According to a survey by Pro Wrestling Illustrated, he is one of the top 10 most popular wrestlers today. This popularity echoes across social media platforms, where fans express their affection and respect for his contributions to wrestling. User reactions have been overwhelmingly emotional, with many sharing memories of Styles’ past matches. One tweet noted, “He’s special. Almost like a brother.”
Nakamura highlighted the bond between him and Styles, describing their relationship as almost brotherly. Their first singles match in 2016 at the Tokyo Dome received worldwide acclaim and marked a pivotal moment for both wrestlers. Over the years, they’ve shared incredible moments in the ring, including memorable matches at WrestleMania and Money in the Bank.
As Styles approaches what could be his final match, it’s not just a personal milestone; it’s also a significant moment in wrestling history. Retiring at the Royal Rumble would resonate deeply with fans, echoing the excitement of ten years ago when he first debuted. That anniversary adds a layer of nostalgia, reminding everyone of how much he has shaped the wrestling landscape.
Reflecting on their friendship, Nakamura’s sentiments resonate with many fans. He may not say it out loud, but he clearly admires Styles. As they gear up for this potentially momentous event, both wrestlers are focused on delivering a memorable performance.
In the world of wrestling, nothing stays the same for long. Styles’ possible retirement creates a chance to reflect on a decade of unforgettable matches and highlights. As fans await the Royal Rumble, there’s a mix of excitement and sadness, knowing it could mark the end of an era.
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