The world of professional wrestling is known for its unpredictable twists and turns, and for one AEW star, the ride has come to an abrupt halt. Chuck Taylor, a veteran wrestler with over two decades of experience, has been forced into retirement due to a career-ending injury. The news sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, leaving fans and fellow wrestlers reeling.
Taylor’s journey in wrestling began in 2002, taking him to various promotions such as NJPW, TNA, EVOLVE, PWG, and ROH, among others. He joined AEW at its inception in 2019, forming a formidable tag team with best friend Trent Beretta, and later adding Orange Cassidy to the mix. The trio, known as The Best Friends, became a staple of the AEW roster, entertaining fans with their high-energy performances.
However, in March, tensions began to simmer beneath the surface. Trent Beretta’s sudden heel turn, attacking Orange Cassidy, marked a dramatic shift in the group’s dynamics. The subsequent Parking Lot Brawl saw Trent emerge victorious, but at a hefty cost. A post-match attack on Taylor’s injured knee with a pipe left him sidelined, paving the way for Cassidy’s emotional announcement on Dynamite: Chuck Taylor’s in-ring career was over.
According to sources within AEW, Taylor’s situation is not a work, and there are currently no plans for him to step back into the ring. The 22-year veteran had been grappling with a foot injury, which had kept him out of action since October 2023. His return for the Parking Lot Brawl was likely a swan song, as Taylor was aware of the severity of his injuries going into the match.
As Taylor begins a new chapter in his career, he has been preparing for life after wrestling. The two-time PWG World Champion has been training as a coach and producer for AEW, a testament to his adaptability and dedication to the sport. Rocky Romero, a friend and fellow wrestler, expressed sadness over Taylor’s situation, praising the 38-year-old for his courage in the face of adversity.
Though The Best Friends are no more, the door is now open for Trent Beretta to go on a singles run, a prospect that has Romero excited. Beretta’s heel turn has brought out a new side of the wrestler, and his grudge match against Orange Cassidy on Dynamite showcased his impressive range.
As Chuck Taylor hangs up his boots, fans and fellow wrestlers alike will remember his contributions to the world of professional wrestling. His legacy will continue to inspire, even as he embarks on a new journey behind the scenes.
