WWE wrapped its mini-tour of Japan today with another big show at the legendary Sumo Hall. After an eventful opening, today’s show featured an emotional farewell for an all-time great.
AJ Styles has said he plans to retire in 2026. The veteran Superstar has legendary ties to Japan, and he always receives a warm welcome when returning to the country. The two-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion defeated El Grande Americano and Ivar in a Triple Threat at Friday’s live event, and defeated Kofi Kingston at today’s show.
CM Punk had a big moment to close Friday’s live event in Tokyo. Today’s show was headlined by Punk and Shinsuke Nakamura defeating Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker. After the match, Punk introduced Styles, noting that he likely just wrestled his final match in The Land of The Rising Sun.
The Phenomenal One then addressed the Tokyo crowd, responding to their chants with immense appreciation. He also asked Nakamura to read a note to the local crowd.
“It should be me thanking you for everything youâ€ve done for AJ Styles. So thank you for everything youâ€ve done for me. I donâ€t know where I would be without you. Iâ€m pretty sure I wouldnâ€t be here in the WWE if it wasnâ€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 itâ€s said in your language so you can know how much that I love and appreciate you. So Nakamura, if you wouldnâ€t mind, would you mind reading what I wrote?,” AJ Styles wrote.
The King of Strong Style then read AJ’s note to the crowd at Sumo Hall. A rough translation of that note is below.
“Everyone, as you all know, when I first came to Japan, to be honest, I didnâ€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 Iâ€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,” Shinsuke Nakamura said on behalf of AJ Styles.
The WWE roster then came out to celebrate AJ in a wholesome moment for the live crowd. The in-ring celebration included LA Knight, Ivar, Rhea Ripley, Asuka, Roxanne Perez, Jey Uso, Bayley, Lyra Valkyria, Penta, and others.
Pro Wrestling NOAH legend Naomichi Marufuji was at ringside, and had a moment with his rival and friend. WWE allowed AJ to return to Japan last year to defeat Marufuji at NOAH Destination.
AJ‘s letter for Japanese fans
#WWESuperShowJapanpic.twitter.com/NV9V8bEcxM— ç´„æŸâ„ï¸åŒ—æ¡åŠ è“®ã‚ã‚ŠãŒã¨ã† (@SLC_YUIxAZU) October 18, 2025
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