The release of the year’s most anticipated Air Jordan sneaker is just around the corner. Ahead of the launch, we’re finally getting a better in-hand look at the style.

After some back-and-forth confusion that had initially slotted the sneaker for a 2025 release, the Air Jordan 12 Retro Bloodline is finally set to drop this month. The pair’s black-and-red colorway references classic Chicago Bulls colors, although the combination is presented in a new, predominantly black blocking. 

The upper is constructed in a black tumbled leather with a matching reptile-textured mudguard. Subtle red accents are added with metallic hits on the sneaker’s signature TPU Jumpman badge and the two uppermost eyelets, and the Varsity Red shade is also used on the heel’s “23” branding and at the tip of the outsole. Further separating the upcoming look from typical Air Jordan 12s is its stamped leather heel tab, which traditionally uses a woven material. 

While its Bulls-themed colors and Bloodline nickname are likely intended as allusions to Michael Jordan’s legacy, the moniker has also connected the shoe to another sport. WWE’s Roman Reigns character, who’s previously worked with Jordan Brand, was chosen to debut the sneakers in April ahead of Wrestlemania 42. And while the upcoming Air Jordan 12 doesn’t appear to feature any official connection to the WWE, it seems that even Jordan Brand couldn’t ignore the synergy between the sneaker and the wrestling star.

Curiously, images of the Air Jordan 12 Retro Bloodline have been scarce, with no official Nike e-commerce images surfacing yet. Despite this, all signs point to the sneaker’s launch still being in the cards. 

The Air Jordan 12 Retro Bloodline is set to be released on May 23 for a retail price of $205. The style code for the Black/Varsity Red sneaker is CT8013-001 and it’s expected to be available from Nike’s Snkrs app and select Jordan Brand retailers.