# Professional wrestler MVP retirement plans

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/professional-wrestler-mvp-retirement-plans
> Updated: 2026-08-11T00:35:28.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Professional wrestler MVP has announced his intention to retire from in-ring competition by 2027. During an appearance on the ‘Marking Out’ podcast, the 52-year-old AEW veteran cited advancing age and a decline in physical explosiveness as primary reasons for the decision. He noted a decreased desire for high-intensity singles matches, though he expressed openness to participating in trios matches with The Hurt Syndicate members Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin if requested by AEW President Tony Khan.

MVP also addressed his career transitions, stating he would decline any offers for a farewell AEW World Championship run to avoid extended title storylines. Reflecting on his move to AEW, he revealed that he previously rejected a lucrative five-year contract from WWE due to a ‘toxic culture’ and dissatisfaction with the backstage environment. He emphasized that his priority was finding peace of mind over financial gain.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-11: MVP discusses rejecting AEW title run and leaving WWE

Wrestler MVP reveals he would reject an AEW World Championship run due to physical decline and discusses why he turned down a five-year WWE contract to escape a ‘toxic culture’.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mvp-discusses-rejecting-aew-title-run-and-leaving-wwe

### 2026-08-08: MVP sets 2027 as target for professional wrestling retirement

AEW wrestler MVP has set 2027 as the year for his final professional wrestling match, citing physical decline and a reduced desire for singles competition.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mvp-sets-2027-as-target-for-professional-wrestling-retirement

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Cite as: Professional wrestler MVP retirement plans. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/professional-wrestler-mvp-retirement-plans