Former WWE SmackDown star will retire in August after a 23-year career; he is just 40 years old!

Professional wrestling can be an unforgiving sport, as talents are often forced to call time on their careers due to injuries, and former WWE star Jaxson Ryker will soon end his in-ring run for the same reason, as announced during a recent interview.

Ryker, aka Gunner, competed in WWE between 2017 to 2021, having signed with the company after an impressive time in IMPACT Wrestling/TNA. Ryker led The Forgotten Sons stable in NXT and made his main roster debut in April 2020, joining the SmackDown brand. He was eventually released in November 2021.

During his recent appearance on the Wrestling for the Faith podcast, Jaxson Ryker confirmed that he would step away from the ring this year.

"I'll admit, I've been wishy-washy, okay? 'I wanna do this; I don't wanna do this.' But I do feel like man, it's time to step away. Not necessarily doesn't mean I won't do guest ref spots or sign some autographs or use it as a ministry. But the in-ring action is just — I think it's time to step away just because of injuries." [H/T POST Wrestling]

In addition to a few shows, Ryker will perform for the last time in his hometown of North Carolina on August 27th, two days after he completes 23 years in the business.

The veteran star revealed that while he doesn't see himself returning to the squared circle, he would be open to doing guest referee spots and would continue appearing at wrestling conventions after retirement.

Former WWE star Jaxson Ryker explains his decision to end his active in-ring career

The former TNA Television Champion noted that he had been dealing with neck injuries since 2015 and felt the time was right for him to draw the curtains on his career as a wrestler.

Ryker, real name Chad Lail, was grateful to have had some memorable wrestling moments and didn't see any merits in continuing to put his body on the line on the independent circuit.

During the same interview, Jaxson stated that he looks forward to the remaining shows he's been booked for until his final match and hopes to spend more time with his family while moving to a new chapter in his life.

"It's just gotten to a point to where I think I'm ready to press on into a new career, and being 40, almost 41, I've been blessed," admitted Ryker. "I've had an amazing, amazing career. What else do I have left to prove? Go work some indie shows and get hurt? I just can't do it. But it is. I got four shows booked, ready to roll."

Sportskeeda Wrestling sends its best wishes to Jaxson Ryker as he prepares for his retirement.