AJ Styles officially retired from WWE following his loss to Gunther at this year’s Royal Rumble, concluding a decade-long tenure with the company that solidified his legacy. The WWE veteran is slated for induction into the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, marking a celebrated milestone for his career. Prior to WWE, Styles built his reputation in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), showcasing the talents that eventually propelled him onto wrestling’s biggest global stage.
Significant Rivalries and Praise from Former TNA Colleague Jeff Jarrett
During his time in TNA, AJ Styles engaged in a notable rivalry with Jeff Jarrett, who has since transitioned to a leadership role as the Director of Business Development with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Jarrett recently spoke warmly about their shared past and Styles’ impact on the sport.
“I could not be happier for the guy. Getting to work with him was super special […] Look at today’s style of wrestling–the 2026 modern style–that’s the X Division from ’03, ’04, ’05, ’06, ’07. You think of [Samoa] Joe, [Christopher] Daniels, Sonjay [Dutt], and so many others. And AJ [Styles] is the face of that. That’s why AJ is the face of modern wrestling. I’m super grateful to have worked with him in the ring and behind the scenes with him. I feel very blessed to be a part of AJ Styles’ career,” Jeff Jarrett, Director of Business Development, AEW
This recognition underscores AJ Styles’ lasting influence on the evolution of wrestling styles in modern professional wrestling.
AJ Styles Rules Out Return, Clarifies Retirement Decision
Following his WWE retirement, speculation surfaced about a potential move to AEW, especially after WWE announced his Hall of Fame induction. Some believed the honor was intended to postpone his debut in the rival promotion. However, AJ Styles dispelled these rumors during an appearance on Talk’N Shop, reaffirming that retiring from in-ring competition was his own decision and that he has no plans to return to wrestling with AEW or elsewhere.
“So everybody wants to say, ‘Oh! WWE put him in the Hall of Fame so he couldn’t go to AEW.’ Guys, I’m retired from wrestling in the ring. Like, that’s all this is. I make my own choices,” AJ Styles, Wrestling Legend
His statement brings clarity to his future intentions, leaving fans uncertain about if or when he might appear on television again in any capacity.
The Lasting Impact of AJ Styles’ Career and What Lies Ahead
AJ Styles has left an indelible mark on professional wrestling through his performances across multiple major promotions including WWE, TNA, and NJPW. His retirement signals the end of an era defined by innovation and excellence in the ring. With his Hall of Fame induction on the horizon, this recognition cements his status among wrestling’s elite. While there is no current indication of a comeback, Styles’ legacy continues to influence new generations of wrestlers and fans worldwide.
AJ Styles is OFFICIALLY a member of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026! 😤@AJStylesOrg pic.twitter.com/3VJrHu3VOc
— WWE (@WWE) February 24, 2026
