Marko Stunt made his highly anticipated debut with AEW during the promotion’s inaugural pay-per-view event, 2019’s Double or Nothing. He quickly joined forces with Jungle Boy, who is now known as Scapegoat Jack Perry, and Luchasaurus, who has recently adopted the moniker Killshot, to form the beloved wrestling trio known as Jurassic Express.
Fast forward five years; TNT champion Perry stands out as the sole remaining member of the original Jurassic Express stable still active in the professional wrestling circuit. Meanwhile, Luchasaurus has been grappling with serious, career-threatening health challenges following a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia. Notably, on November 1st, Stunt revealed his decision to retire from wrestling, heeding advice from his healthcare professionals.
Here’s the heartfelt statement he posted on X/Twitter Friday night:
To My Fans, Friends, and the Wrestling Community,
Today, I write this with a heavy yet grateful heart as I announce my retirement from professional wrestling. This decision was not an easy one, as wrestling has permeated every facet of my life for so long, filled with unforgettable moments that have significantly shaped my identity. It has been an extraordinary journey, one filled with passion, sweat, tears, and immense joy.
Over the years, I’ve dedicated my body to the ring. Although I am not the largest competitor, I embraced that and allowed myself to endure the physical toll it takes, all the while cherishing every moment of it. However, after thorough consultations with my doctor, I’ve come to prioritize my long-term health and step back from in-ring competition. Accepting this reality has been one of the most challenging moments of my career, but it is clear to me that this is the right path forward.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Thank you for giving me the invaluable opportunity to showcase my abilities and bring my passion to fans around the globe. Being able to wrestle on national television was a dream I could hardly fathom when I first entered this industry, and it was under the AEW banner that this dream became a reality. To everyone involved in AEW, from the dedicated production crew to my fellow wrestlers who became my family, thank you for believing in me and providing me a home in this business.
I also want to extend my sincerest thanks to Brett Lauderdale and Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). Brett, your belief in me gave me my start, and GCW served as the springboard for my career. It was here that I discovered my unique voice, learned to embrace my individuality, and evolved into the person and wrestler I am today. You provided me with transformative opportunities that have forever altered the course of my life, and for that, I remain forever grateful.
To all the wrestlers I’ve had the pleasure of sharing the ring with, each of you knows who you are. You all have played a vital role in my journey, imparting lessons, pushing me beyond my limits, and creating unforgettable moments together. Whether we faced off as opponents or stood united as allies, you all hold a special place in my heart.
Lastly, to the passionate fans who cheered, supported, and believed in me through every match and event—thank you. Your energy, motivation, and unwavering loyalty drove me more than you will ever understand. You embody the heart and soul of this industry, and without your support, none of what I achieved would have been possible.
As I step away from the ring, I carry with me cherished memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. While I may be retiring from in-ring competition, wrestling will forever remain a vital part of my identity. I look forward to exploring new avenues to contribute to this incredible industry while staying connected with all of you who helped make this dream a reality.
Thank you for everything.
The undersized Stunt, affectionately known as “Mr. Fun Size”, was pivotal in one of the early significant debates about Tony Khan’s AEW product. At just 5’2” and 120 pounds, he stepped in to replace Luchasaurus as Perry’s partner in the tournament designed to crown AEW’s first-ever Tag Champions. Though his contract was not renewed in 2022, Stunt made an unexpected return this past summer for a match against The Scapegoat, marking one of the very few bouts he has participated in since last year.
Wishing all the best to Marko Stunt as he embarks on this new chapter of his life.
**Interview with Marko Stunt on His Retirement from Professional Wrestling**
**Interviewer:** Marko, thank you for joining us today. Your recent announcement about retiring from professional wrestling has shocked many in the wrestling community. How are you feeling about this decision?
**Marko Stunt:** Thank you for having me. Honestly, it’s been an emotional rollercoaster. Wrestling has been such a huge part of my life for so long. I’ve loved every minute of it, and stepping away from the ring is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. But at the end of the day, my health must come first.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned in your statement that you consulted with healthcare professionals. What kind of advice did they give you regarding your future in wrestling?
**Marko Stunt:** After getting a thorough evaluation, the doctors emphasized the importance of prioritizing my long-term health. They made it clear that continuing to compete could have serious consequences down the line. It was a tough pill to swallow, but I knew in my heart that they were right.
**Interviewer:** You debuted with AEW back in 2019 as part of Jurassic Express. Can you share some of your fondest memories from that time?
**Marko Stunt:** There are so many! Being part of Jurassic Express with Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus was a dream come true. I’ll always cherish the energy of our matches and the connection we built with the fans. Performing at events like Double or Nothing and seeing the crowd’s reaction is something I’ll never forget. Those moments were truly magical.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of your time in AEW, you thanked them in your statement. What did being part of that promotion mean to you personally and professionally?
**Marko Stunt:** AEW provided me with a platform to show the world what I can do. It was a dream to wrestle on national television, and AEW made that possible. I’ll forever be grateful to everyone there who believed in me and supported my journey. They gave me a home when I really needed one.
**Interviewer:** What’s next for you now that you’ve announced your retirement? Do you have plans to stay involved in wrestling in some capacity?
**Marko Stunt:** For now, I want to focus on my health and take some time for myself. I’m figuring out what my next steps will be—whether that’s coaching, helping out behind the scenes, or maybe even doing some commentary. I still want to be a part of this amazing community in some way.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, any message for your fans and fellow wrestlers?
**Marko Stunt:** I just want to thank everyone for their support over the years. The wrestling community is incredible, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it. To my fans, friends, and everyone who’s been part of my journey—thank you for believing in me. I may be stepping away from the ring, but I’ll always carry the love and passion for wrestling in my heart.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Marko, for sharing your thoughts with us. We wish you all the best in this new chapter of your life.
**Marko Stunt:** Thank you so much. I appreciate it!
