AJ Styles Receives Emotional Send-Off During WWE Japan Tour

AJ Styles likely wrestled his final match in Japan on October 18 during WWE’s live event at the iconic Sumo Hall in Tokyo. It was an emotional moment not only for Japanese fans who have followed his wrestling career over the years, but also for Styles himself, who was shaped by his experiences as a performer in Japan.

The event was part of WWE’s SuperShow tour, but it quickly became something much more. It turned into a celebration of the long-standing connection between AJ Styles and Japanese wrestling.

A Triumph with Greater Significance

That night, Styles faced Kofi Kingston and emerged victorious. While the match itself was thrilling, what came afterward was even more special and captured everyone’s attention.

After the main event, members of the WWE roster returned to the ring to surprise AJ Styles with an emotional send-off. It was a heartfelt gesture that touched everyone in attendance.

A Touching Tribute from the WWE Locker Room

When Styles reentered the ring, he was met with roaring cheers from the Tokyo crowd. WWE Superstars surrounded him, offering their congratulations and respect to one of the most accomplished wrestlers of his generation.

Styles then gave a heartfelt speech, thanking the Japanese people for their kindness, support, and the many fond memories he had built throughout his career. To make the moment even more meaningful, longtime rival and former NJPW colleague Shinsuke Nakamura translated his words for the local audience.

The emotional farewell reached its peak when Ivar and CM Punk lifted AJ Styles onto their shoulders, a powerful show of respect and admiration from his peers.

A Legacy Forged in Japan

Japan was more than just another stop in AJ Styles’ career. It was where his legend was built. Between 2014 and 2015, Styles had a remarkable run in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), becoming a two-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and earning global recognition for his performances. He was among the few foreign wrestlers to earn deep respect in NJPW history, and his success there paved the way for his eventual arrival in WWE.

Approaching the Final Chapter

In recent interviews, AJ Styles has shared that he plans to retire from in-ring competition in 2026, closing the book on a career that has spanned more than two decades.

If the Tokyo match truly was his final appearance in Japan, it was the perfect way to say goodbye. He was surrounded by friends, respected by peers, and celebrated by fans who gave him the farewell he deserved.