AJ Styles‘ position with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) remains unclear following his recent WWE Royal Rumble appearance in early 2026. Although no official confirmation exists regarding his contractual status, sources within AEW indicate that if Styles becomes available, the promotion is highly likely to pursue him.
During the WWE Royal Rumble event, Styles faced Gunther in a high-stakes match where his career hung in the balance. After the match, Styles briefly hinted at retirement by leaving his gloves in the ring, but ultimately picked them back up and exited without definitive closure.
Backstage Speculation and Interest in Styles
Industry insiders conveyed to Fightful Select that AJ Styles was widely discussed backstage at AEW last week, with uncertainty about his official standing. Despite this ambiguity, those familiar with AEW’s approach believe they would actively reach out to Styles should he become a free agent, recognizing his popularity and in-ring talent.
Recent Career Developments and Impact
AJ Styles’ recent match against Gunther at WWE’s Royal Rumble marked a significant moment, potentially signaling a turning point in his wrestling career. Styles has long been recognized for his high-level performances, and his next steps are highly anticipated by fans and industry figures alike.
The wrestling community awaits further announcements or developments as AEW considers the possibility of adding Styles to their roster, which could influence future storylines and talent dynamics within the company.
