AJ Styles has made his plan clear regarding his wrestling future, confirming he intends to retire in WWE rather than making any last run in AEW. His public stance on his WWE retirement plans directly addresses rumors and speculation about a possible switch to another promotion before stepping away from the ring.
AJ Styles Sets Retirement Timeline With WWE
Last year, AJ Styles, known as “The Phenomenal One,” informed WWE fans that he would end his active wrestling career in 2026. Although he did not give an exact date for his final match, he made it evident that 2026 will be his last year in the ring. Styles wants to step away before age and physical setbacks tarnish his legacy, emphasizing the importance of leaving on his own terms and preserving the way fans remember his career. After more than 30 years of traveling as a professional wrestler, his desire to focus on spending time with his family has also come into clear focus.
Styles has indicated that his current WWE contract will be his final one as a performer. As his in-ring role concludes, he has expressed interest in transitioning to a position as a trainer or producer, aiming to guide the next generation of talent. His career trajectory strongly suggests that his departure will happen exclusively within WWE, with no intention of wrestling elsewhere.
Throughout his storied journey, AJ Styles has performed for major organizations across the globe, including NJPW, ROH, and TNA, as well as working on various independent circuits in Japan and Mexico. Despite his vast experience, he has never competed in AEW, a detail that has prompted frequent discussions and rumors about a potential last run there. However, Styles is resolute in his choice to end his active wrestling days with WWE only.
Addressing AEW Retirement Speculation and Fan Criticism
Recently, speculation about AJ Styles joining AEW before retirement resurfaced on social media. A user posted on X (formerly Twitter) suggesting that the 48-year-old veteran chose WWE over AEW for financial reasons and that he should have wrapped up his career in AEW instead. In response, Styles delivered a direct and biting reply using his own words:
“I’ll take dumbest things to ever have been said for 100 Alex.” — AJ Styles, WWE Superstar
This statement dismisses the online chatter, making it clear that the veteran has no intention of finishing his career anywhere but WWE. Styles’ comment, made on January 3, 2026, reinforces his certainty and satisfaction with his career trajectory, distancing himself from any suggestion that money or unfinished business would take him elsewhere.
Legacy and What’s Next for AJ Styles
Over decades in the industry, AJ Styles has cemented his reputation as one of professional wrestling’s most adaptable and revered competitors. From a formative period on international circuits to high-profile roles in TNA, NJPW, and finally WWE, his journey captures both variety and perseverance. While some critics and fans, including well-known analysts and veteran voices, continue to debate the motivations behind a wrestler’s final move, Styles’ own words and actions confirm his resolve: there will be no surprise switch to AEW or any other promotion before his retirement.
As Styles prepares to conclude his in-ring story, many anticipate his impact will continue behind the scenes if he moves into a trainer or producer role, passing on his experience to the next crop of WWE superstars. His choice brings a sense of closure to the ongoing discussion about AJ Styles WWE retirement plans, finalizing his legacy with the organization that helped showcase his talents on a global stage. For both longtime supporters and industry observers, Styles’ decision signals the end of an era in professional wrestling and the beginning of a new chapter outside the ropes.
I’ll take dumbest things to ever have been said for 100 Alex. https://t.co/yncFAHN42Z
— AJ Styles (@AJStylesOrg) January 3, 2026
