Sting Set For First Convention Appearance Without Face Paint

Sting is set to make an appearance during SummerSlam 2026 weekend, but this one comes with a change. For the first time at a major convention signing, “The Icon” will appear without his signature face paint.

For decades, the black-and-white war paint became one of the most recognizable looks in wrestling. From WCW to TNA and later AEW, Sting’s character remained closely tied to the one fans grew up watching. That changed after his 2025 farewell, but he still brings it back from time to time for special moments. Sting recently appeared in paint on AEW Dynamite during a tribute to Ted Turner. But WrestleCon will give fans a different version of the wrestling legend.

WrestleCon has confirmed that Sting will appear at the Minneapolis event on Friday, July 31, from 4 PM to 8 PM for the first time without his face paint. The appearance is currently scheduled as a one-day exclusive during the opening night of the convention.

“Our first guest announcement for Minneapolis is the Icon Sting! His first appearance after retiring the war paint will be in Minnesota. He will be appearing exclusively on Friday July 31st from 4pm-8pm (Day 1).”

Sting officially retired from active competition in 2024 after wrapping up one of wrestling’s most recognizable careers. Since then, his appearances have been more selective, making convention bookings like this stand out even more.

Our first guest announcement for Minneapolis is the Icon Sting! His first appearance after retiring the war paint will be in Minnesota. He will be appearing exclusively on Friday July 31st from 4pm-8pm (Day 1). pic.twitter.com/WUIN6GXDH9

— WrestleCon (@wrestlecon) May 11, 2026