Mark Henry Reacts to AJ Styles’ Fake Retirement on 5/31 WWE SmackDown

AJ Styles has carved out a legendary career in the world of professional wrestling and he made full use of that to trick Cody Rhodes on this week’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown. In light of this, Mark Henry has finally reacted to Styles’ fake retirement as well.

In a heartfelt segment on the May 31st edition of Friday Night SmackDown, AJ Styles took a moment to reflect on his career, revealing his hesitation to start anew in his pursuit of the Undisputed WWE Championship. He spoke of his son’s upcoming graduation, suggesting that his role as a father was calling for his attention.

Following this, Styles called out the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes, to the ring, expressing gratitude for their memorable clash at WWE Backlash France. However, as the show drew to a close, Styles shocked everyone with a sudden assault on Rhodes, ultimately delivering a brutal Styles Clash from the steel steps to the mat.

This segment echoed Mark Henry’s memorable fake retirement in June 2013. The WWE Hall of Famer had tearfully bid farewell with John Cena in the ring, only to surprise everyone with a World’s Strongest Slam. The main difference this time was the color of the jacket—Styles chose light blue, whereas Henry had worn salmon pink.

Comparisons between the two moments quickly surfaced online, and Mark Henry himself took to Twitter to acknowledge AJ Styles. The former AEW coach praised The Phenomenal One for his masterful execution of the segment.

”…..well done AJ 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿 @BustedOpenRadio @WWE”

With AJ Styles seemingly not done with his in-ring career, his surprise attack on Cody Rhodes served as a bold statement. This unexpected assault hints at the beginning of Styles’ quest for another opportunity at the Undisputed WWE Championship, signaling his determination to remain a top contender.

Were you also impressed by AJ Styles faking his retirement like Mark Henry? Sound off in the comments section below!