Ex WWE Wrestler Zach Gowen has officially made known his retirement from professional wrestling, bringing an end to his 24-year in-ring career.
Gowen, whose wrestling journey was lately featured on Vice TV’s Dark Side of the Ring, affirmed the news in an emotional statement shared on his official Facebook page.
Gowen reflected on the importance of professional wrestling in his life — explaining that the industry provided him with direction during a difficult period of his youth. “Pro wrestling provided a direction and outlet for a considerably lost kid. All I ever wanted to be was a professional superstar and I accomplished that solely because you accepted me not as a sideshow act although as a legitimate pro wrestler. I’m deeply grateful.”
Gowen thanked the promoters who gave him opportunities and the fans who embraced him throughout his time in the industry, alongside photographs from the beginning and end of his career. “First portion pic and final promo pic — equally important, my in-ring career has come to an end. Thank you to every promoter who gave me an opportunity to wrestle. I’ve had the privilege of performing for every major company over the past 24 years. Adding to the story, special thank you to the fans for not rejecting me.”
Although Gowen is remembered by many enthusiasts for his time in WWE, he identified a more latest appearance for AEW as the highlight of his career.
Gowen clarified that being able to wrestle in front of his wife, children. Parents was particularly meaningful after overcoming personal struggles — including drug addiction, and rebuilding his life. “The best moment of my career was wrestling for AEW in front of my wife, kids, and parents. That was the cherry on top after burning my career to the ground as a result of my crippling drug addiction then having the opportunity to not only rebuild my life but my passion then sharing that with the world while enjoying every second of it.”
The ex WWE star concluded his retirement announcement by expressing gratitude to those who supported him throughout his career and personal recovery. “My victories are not the result of my talents on the flip side ultimately the result of God working through others allowing them to pour into and invest in me. Beyond that, i am the luckiest guy in the world.”
Gowen’s retirement marks the conclusion of a wrestling career spanning more than two decades, during which he overcame significant obstacles to fulfill his childhood ambition of becoming a professional competitor.