In a revealing Q&A on his Patreon, WWE legend The Undertaker discussed his thoughts following his final match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36. Known for his iconic and enduring presence in WWE, The Undertaker’s last bout was the cinematic Boneyard Match, a unique and memorable departure from traditional wrestling settings.
At the time of the match, it was not publicly known that this would mark the end of The Undertaker’s storied career in the ring. Reflecting on the period leading up to WrestleMania 36, The Undertaker shared that while he felt he might still have “some gas in the tank” for future matches, he had no specific opponents in mind. His focus was entirely on preparing for what he anticipated being a conventional match against Styles in the ring.
“The only thing I was thinking was, ‘There may be more gas in the tank for some other opponents,’ but I didn’t have anybody in mind. I was completely focused on AJ and the shape that I thought I was going to have to be in to have the match that I wanted to have with him, which would have been initially in a wrestling ring,” The Undertaker explained.
This intensive preparation highlighted his commitment to delivering a standout performance, but also his recognition of the physical demands such a match would require. Ultimately, the Boneyard Match format was a deviation from the norm, influenced by external circumstances and the evolving nature of the entertainment aspects of wrestling.
In the aftermath of the match, The Undertaker realized that his body had reached its limit. The physical toll of his long and illustrious career, combined with the high standards he set for himself, led him to conclude that it was time to step away from in-ring competition.
The Undertaker also took a moment to express his admiration for AJ Styles, not only as a performer but as a person, underscoring the respect he has for his last opponent in the squared circle.
As fans and colleagues alike reflect on The Undertaker’s immense impact on the wrestling world, his candid insights provide a deeper understanding of his decision to retire and the respect he holds for the competitors who shared the ring with him.