Two wrestling legends lay out timelines for their retirements

WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio Jr. has also begun to discuss his retirement plans. Speaking to Ariel Helwani on "The MMA Hour," Mysterio revealed he is looking to call it quits within the next two years. Mysterio has been around since his time in WCW and has been a key figure in WWE for more than a decade. 

"That's a year away," Mysterio said. "I'm hoping...I did say 50. If my body keeps responding the way it has...the way I've been working for the past 34 years, I've modified my work a lot, for the best, but still being able to invest the audience into watching Rey Mysterio."

Wrestlers tend to have long careers. They become a part of the sport's history. Both Sting and Mysterio are staples of multiple generations. They've been around since the heyday of WCW and have continued to wow fans for more than 30 years. Their respective retirements will be major body blows to the wrestling world and their respective companies. 

A passing of the guard is inevitable. Wrestling has evolved. It has become more athletic. New generations will be looking to mimic the longevity of Mysterio and Sting. Some will succeed. Most will fail. 

"Legend" is a word thrown around too easily in modern sports — yet both stars are deserving of the title. They've held multiple world championships, inspired and nurtured generations of new talent, and are fortunate enough to be going out on their own terms.

Wrestling will lose two of the best in the coming years. However, we've been blessed with decades of memorable moments. It's time to celebrate their achievements and enjoy whatever matches they have left. After all, careers like theirs don't come around every day.