Former Forgotten Son Jaxson Ryker, known as Gunner outside of WWE, declared that he’s retiring from in-ring competition in August of 2023.
The star courted controversy during his time in the sports entertainment giant, tweeting support for then-President Donald Trump amidst racial tensions in the United States following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police. He and teammates Wesley Blake and Steve Cutler (now known as Westin Blake and Steve Maclin) were removed from television following the tweet, though he maintains he doesn’t believe he said anything wrong and will not apologize for expressing his opinion.
Though he returned to television for a brief partnership with Elias, the former Forgotten Son was released from his contract with the sports entertainment giant in November of 2021.
The deeply religious Gunner has also been called out for homophobia and anti-abortion views.
“I Do Feel Like It’s Time To Step Away” – Former WWE Star Jaxson Ryker On Retirement
After his WWE release, Gunner has competed for a handful of independent promotions. Now, in an interview with Wrestling for the Faith, Gunner revealed that his time inside the squared circle is coming to a close in August of 2023.
“I do feel like it’s time to step away. Now, [that] necessarily doesn’t mean I’ll go do guest ref spots or go sign some autographs or use it as a ministry, but the in-ring action, I think it’s time to step away. Because of injuries, it’s time to pursue a different career. I have four shows booked. August 27th, which is funny, it’s two days after my 23 year anniversary of my wrestling career starting, [that date] will be my last show in Salisbury, North Carolina.
“I think it’s time to walk away, I don’t… there’s moments that I enjoy, working around with you, doing some stuff with you or certain other guys but it’s just gotten to the point where I’m ready to press on into a new career. I’m 40, almost 41 man. I’ve been blessed, I’ve had an amazing career. What else do I have left to prove? Go work some indie shows and get hurt? I just can’t do it. I got four shows booked ready to roll.”
h/t Fightful