In the world of professional wrestling, age is often just a formal detail. For instance, WWE features numerous wrestlers over 40 actively competing. R-Truth, at 53, recently faced John Cena for the WWE Championship, showcasing longevity in the sport. Many former WWE stars continue their careers in independent circuits and other wrestling organizations, proving that WWE isn’t the only path to wrestling success.
Take Shane Douglas, known in WWE as Dean Douglas, who remains active in wrestling outside WWE, despite his last appearance in the company being in 1996. He vowed never to return to WWE after leaving, citing a serious injury. Too Cold Scorpio, with his tenure spanning the New Generation and Attitude Eras, has been a dependable presence in the ring despite not securing major titles. Although 59 now, he still wrestles occasionally but has reduced his matches compared to previous years.
Gangrel, active during similar eras, had his most notable time alongside Edge and Christian. Currently, he serves as a head trainer in Florida and continues wrestling worldwide, including recent appearances in Scotland and Chicago. The Powers of Pain, famous in the Golden Era, remain semi-active but haven’t reunited since 2024. Due to legal disputes with WWE, their return to the company seems unlikely.
Tajiri, a “Japanese buzzsaw,” boasts an impressive 31-year career with multiple championship wins in WWE and other major promotions. In 2025, he’s a prominent figure in Japan’s independent wrestling scene and recently participated in NJPW events. Hakushi, another New Generation Era wrestler, though once a mid-card heel in WWE, is still active in Japan’s wrestling circuits, teaming up with Hayabusa for recent matches.
Jazz, a two-time WWE Women’s Champion, is often overlooked in discussions on women’s wrestling evolution but remains influential, primarily through coaching roles, although she still competes occasionally. Ricardo Rodriguez, known mainly as a ring announcer but also a wrestler, competes internationally at 39. Bob Orton Jr., at 74, made a notable return to wrestling in 2025, known for his WWE work during the 1980s.
Último Dragón, active during the Ruthless Aggression Era, is now a trainer and advisor for Japan’s Dragon Gate Promotion, still competing regularly despite a brief and less successful WWE stint.
Fan Take: This overview highlights how wrestling legends continue to contribute to the sport beyond their WWE careers, underscoring the depth and resilience of professional wrestling. For WWE fans, it shows that wrestling’s rich history extends beyond the company, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans who keep the sport vibrant worldwide.
