AJ Styles has stepped away from in-ring competition but remains actively involved in WWE through a new role focused on mentoring emerging talent. Since retiring from wrestling, Styles has been dedicating his efforts to scouting and supporting wrestlers at various stages of their careers to help them develop within the company.
Behind the Scenes: Evaluating and Assisting Talent
On March 8, 2026, during an episode of his Phenomenally Retro podcast, Styles revealed that a key part of his job involves monitoring and assessing wrestlers across different platforms, including independent circuits and WWE programs. He spends considerable time online watching matches, identifying potential areas where he can offer guidance to improve their skills or chances of advancing within WWE.
“I’m on the internet checking out talent because that’s part of my job with WWE now. I’m looking at different wrestlers and seeing what I can do to help them, maybe help them improve with little things. If there’s a possibility of them getting something like a WWE ID or moving closer to WWE, then hopefully I can help make that happen.” – AJ Styles, WWE Mentor
Expanding Responsibilities and Direct Interaction with Wrestlers
Though the position has just begun, Styles anticipates his duties will broaden over time. His role will involve direct communication and in-person meetings with talent from the independent scene, NXT, and sometimes even the main WWE roster. For example, he plans to be at an upcoming Monday Night Raw event in Seattle to connect with wrestlers personally, providing support and addressing their developmental needs.
“Right now things are a little slow, but there will be phone calls that need to be made to make sure I’m doing my job. And it’s not just about independent talent. It also includes NXT talent and sometimes even main roster talent. For example, I’m going to Seattle for the next Monday Night Raw to talk with some talent. Sometimes people just need someone to talk to about how they’re feeling or what they want to work on. Maybe they want to go down to the Performance Center and improve certain things. I’m there to help with that.” – AJ Styles, WWE Mentor
Fostering Confidence and Morale Among Upcoming Wrestlers
Maintaining positive morale is a central focus of Styles’ new position. He strives to create an environment where talent feel supported and motivated as they hone their abilities. The role is evolving, but ensuring wrestlers receive encouragement and constructive feedback remains his priority.
“If I can help keep morale high and support the talent in a positive way, that’s what I want to do. There are a lot of different things involved in this role, and as time goes on the job will probably change and grow. But right now, that’s mainly what I’m focused on.” – AJ Styles, WWE Mentor
AJ Styles’ Legacy and Continued Influence on WWE
AJ Styles concluded his in-ring career following his defeat to GUNTHER at the 2026 Royal Rumble. His retirement was honored on WWE RAW, where The Undertaker also announced his upcoming induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. Shifting his focus to mentoring, Styles now contributes to WWE by shaping the future generation of Superstars, applying his experience to develop new talent backstage.
This transition marks a significant change for Styles, who has moved from performing Phenomenal Forearms live to guiding wrestlers behind the curtain. His new role could prove influential as he helps wrestlers navigate the challenges of their careers and strengthen their connection to WWE’s development system.
