AEW star MVP recently revisited his 2008 Royal Rumble match against Ric Flair, calling it a career highlight. The bout, which took place on January 27, 2008, at Madison Square Garden, was Flair's final match at the iconic venue. MVP, then the WWE United States Champion, nearly forced Flair into retirement.

What happened in the match?

On the latest episode of "Marking Out," MVP broke down the encounter. He said facing Flair at the Royal Rumble was a huge deal. "This was Ric Flair's last match in Madison Square Garden, and my first," MVP explained.

The stakes were high. If MVP beat Flair, Flair would have to retire. MVP scored a three-count, but the referee saw Flair's foot on the ropes and reversed the call. Flair survived and eventually locked in his Figure Four Leg Lock, forcing MVP to submit.

Why it matters for Ric Flair

Flair's career was winding down in early 2008. The loss to MVP didn't end it, but it set the stage for his first retirement. Flair would go on to lose to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 24 on March 30, 2008, in what was billed as his final match.

MVP made clear he still respects Flair's legacy despite later controversies. "You can have your opinions of Ric Flair," MVP said. "But when we talk about professional wrestling in the United States, Ric Flair is one of the most important players in the history of professional wrestling."

What comes next for both men?

MVP now works in AEW as a manager and on-screen personality. He's been involved in storylines with top stars. Flair, now 77, remains a presence in wrestling. He made a surprise appearance on AEW television in 2023 and still draws big reactions.

The 2008 Royal Rumble match stands as a footnote in Flair's legendary career. But for MVP, it was a defining moment. He got to share the ring with "The Nature Boy" at the world's most famous arena. That memory, he said, will never fade.

Flair's MSG record remains intact. He won that night, but the match showed how close he came to the end. For fans, it's a reminder of Flair's ability to elevate anyone he worked with. MVP agrees. "It was an honor," he said.