WWE stars pay tribute to AJ Styles at Japan Supershow
AJ Styles has potentially wrestled his final match in Japan.
Following the main event of WWE’s Japan Supershow at Ryogoku Kokugikan on Friday night, Styles, who has said he plans to retire in 2026, came out to address the live audience. He was introduced by CM Punk, who noted that Styles has likely competed in his final match in the country.
Styles said:
“It should be me thanking you for everything you’ve done for AJ Styles. So thank you for everything you’ve done for me. I don’t know where I would be without you. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be here in the WWE if it wasn’t for you, coming and wrestling in Japan. But I wrote something and I had it translated in Japanese because I want to make sure it’s said in your language so you can know how much that I love and appreciate you. So Nakamura, if you wouldn’t mind, would you mind reading what I wrote?”
Shinsuke Nakamura, who was in the ring at the time, then read Styles’ note to the live crowd. A rough translation of what Nakamura read on behalf of Styles is below:
“Everyone, as you all know, when I first came to Japan, to be honest, I didn’t know what people expected from me or if someone like me would even be accepted here. But from the very first day, you welcomed me with respect and passion. Every time I passed through the curtain to the ring in Japan, I gave everything I had because I felt you all were worthy of it. In return, you gave me something I will never forget: trust, energy, and love for professional wrestling. Maybe one day I’ll leave this ring, but a part of my heart will always remain here, in the hearts of the Japanese people and in each and every one of you. Thank you.”
Following Styles’ promo, several members of the WWE roster came out to the ring to celebrate the moment with him. CM Punk and Ivar carried Styles on their shoulders. Pro Wrestling NOAH’s Naomichi Marufuji was also seated ringside for the show and hugged Styles before his match.
Styles’ post-show speech can be seen in the social media post below:
