Wrestling legend Sting has revealed that he originally envisioned a different ending for his iconic career. While he retired in a celebrated, undefeated run, “The Icon” says he initially wanted to go out with a different persona.
Speaking on the Major Figure Podcast, Sting discussed his desire to have retired as “Old Man Sting.” He also commented on the constant fan requests for him to have one more match.
Old Man Sting
Since his official retirement match at AEW Revolution in 2024, Sting has let his signature black hair turn its natural gray and has grown out his beard. He told the podcast hosts that this look was something he wanted to incorporate into his final act.
“I actually wanted to retire as Old Man Sting,” he revealed (H/T to Fightful).
This idea was more than just a passing thought. In January of 2025, Sting officially filed a trademark for the phrase “Old Man Sting,” suggesting it was a character concept he was seriously considering for merchandise or a final run.
The Legendary Career Of “The Icon”
Sting’s career has been defined by his incredible ability to reinvent himself. He first rose to superstardom in the NWA and WCW as the bleach-blonde, high-energy “Surfer” Sting, the colorful franchise player of the company.
In 1996, he underwent one of the most groundbreaking transformations in wrestling history, adopting the silent, brooding, black-and-white “Crow” persona that would make him a global icon during the Monday Night Wars.
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After a brief and injury-shortened run in WWE, many thought his career was over. However, he shocked the world by signing with AEW in late 2020.
An Undefeated Final Chapter
Sting’s three-year run in AEW is considered one of the most successful final acts in wrestling history.
Teaming with his protégé, Darby Allin, Sting competed in 28 matches and remained undefeated. He and Allin captured the AEW World Tag Team Championships, and he successfully retired as champion, defeating The Young Bucks in a brutal and emotional final match at AEW Revolution 2024.
Despite this storybook ending, fans still want more. Sting acknowledged the constant calls for his return. “I’ve got enough fans going, ‘One more. Just one more.’ Right, one more match,” he said, before adding, “I’m 66 now, enough is enough.”
His post-retirement appearance at AEW All In 2024, where he came to the aid of Darby Allin, has only fueled that speculation. However, Sting seems content, noting that 2025 will be his final year of doing conventions in his full gear, signaling the true end of an era.
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