Lio Rush shocked the wrestling world on Tuesday night when he announced his retirement from wrestling.
Rush, who had recently signed with NJPW and said in his retirement post that AEW wanted to sign him as well, cited an AC injury and wanting to focus on his long-term future and health as the reason for his retirement.
Rush suffered the injury in the Casino Battle Royale at AEW Double or Nothing, where he joined as a surprise entrant.
You can read his full statement by clicking here.
Following his announcement, AEW President Tony Khan issued the following statement:
Lio Rush reached out to me today, and he shared that he’d planned to announce his retirement from pro wrestling tonight. While this news was unexpected, I’m glad that he’s made a choice that he’s confident will make him and his family happy.
Lio is a great talent, and I enjoyed briefly working with him, and I absolutely wish him the best.
Lio was a big part of MLW during the pandemic, winning the MLW Middleweight Championship and headlining multiple episodes of Fusion.
MLW CEO Court Bauer issued the following statement on Lio's decision:
“Lio is a brilliant athlete who made a difficult decision but one that I admire for his commitment to putting family first. I along with everyone at Major League Wrestling wish Lio continued success with the next chapter of his life and thank him for sharing his extraordinary talent with the world.”
Lio stated he will fulfill his commitments to NJPW once he heals from injury before officially retiring.
He is scheduled to compete on Friday's NJPW Strong in a bout that was previously taped.