AJ Styles’ Future in WWE Remains Uncertain After His Retirement Match
The conclusion of AJ Styles' illustrious career in WWE took a poignant turn at the Royal Rumble event held in Riyadh. However, what lies ahead for The Phenomenal One is shrouded in uncertainty, igniting curiosity among wrestling fans.
Styles faced off against GUNTHER in a match that could potentially define the end of his wrestling journey on January 31. Reports from PWInsider.com indicate that he is not slated to appear on the upcoming episode of Raw, which raises questions about his future in WWE and the wrestling industry as a whole.
Earlier this year, Styles publicly declared that 2026 would mark his final year as an active wrestler. The Royal Rumble had long been speculated as a possible farewell event, and WWE embraced this storyline wholeheartedly. Yet, following his emotionally charged moment post-match—where he appeared to leave his gloves in the ring but ultimately chose to put them back on—the narrative still feels unresolved.
Throughout his extensive career, Styles has made a name for himself in various promotions including WCW, TNA, NJPW, ROH, and WWE, collecting an impressive array of titles along the way. He is a two-time WWE Champion, an IWGP Heavyweight Champion, and a TNA World Champion, and played a crucial role in establishing TNA’s X-Division. His recent engagements with rivals like CM Punk and Shinsuke Nakamura had built anticipation for what many thought would be his final match in WWE.
But here's where it gets intriguing—Styles has recently taken steps to trademark his ring name and logo. This move has sparked speculation that he may not be ready to fully step away from the wrestling scene. The possibilities are endless: he might join another promotion such as AEW, take on a behind-the-scenes role, or perhaps even retire completely, leaving fans guessing.
So, is this really the final chapter for AJ Styles, or just the beginning of a new journey beyond WWE? We’d love to hear your thoughts! What do you hope to see from him next? Share your opinions in the comments below!
