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In a poignant moment during AEW Dynamite, held in Rosenberg, Texas, wrestling icon Sting officially signaled the approaching end of his illustrious in-ring career. With a resume spanning the NWA, WCW, TNA, WWE, and most recently, AEW, Sting announced that his final performance would occur at AEW's Revolution event in 2024.
Although an exact date for the event hasn't been set, it's historically taken place in early March. Fans will recall that Sting made his AEW debut at Revolution in 2021, teaming up with Darby Allin to defeat Brian Cage and Ricky Starks in a riveting cinematic Street Fight.
Veteran wrestler and Hall of Famer Booker T weighed in on the retirement news on his 'Hall of Fame' podcast. Booker expressed a blend of admiration and relief about Sting's decision to step out of the ring. "I'm genuinely pleased for him," Booker stated, "At 65, it's time to move on to the next chapter.
He's venturing into senior citizen territory. It's challenging to leave a profession that you've devoted your entire life to."
Booker T Weighs In
Booker T further elaborated, "It's a tough call. Despite the physical toll, the wrestling business can be addictive.
And let's be honest, it's a decision that's been a long time coming for Sting. Retirement in this industry is often easier said than done." Taking a more whimsical turn, Booker then humorously suggested that Sting should consider staying in the ring indefinitely.
"Don't ever quit. That's what most of us wrestlers attempt to do. Retirement in this industry is rarely permanent. Becoming an 'old man' sitting at home isn't all it's cracked up to be," he chuckled. "My take? Keep taking those bumps and flying off the ropes, Sting." Booker T's sentiments echo a broader conversation within the wrestling community about when is the 'right time' to retire, and how challenging it can be for athletes to leave the world that has defined them for so many years.
As the wrestling world prepares to bid adieu to one of its most enduring figures, the debate is likely to continue. However, Sting's impact on the industry is unquestionable, and his final bow at Revolution 2024 is anticipated to be a significant moment in wrestling history.