The latest episode of WWE RAW saw a major shift for AJ Styles, as he and Dragon Lee lost their WWE World Tag Team Championship to The Usos in less than 71 days, marking the end of their captivating reign. This outcome has raised immediate questions about AJ Styles WWE future, with fans and analysts speculating whether his career is nearing its conclusion or if new rivalries lie ahead for the wrestling veteran.
End of a Reign: AJ Styles and Dragon Lee Lose Their Titles
The main event of WWE RAW featured AJ Styles and Dragon Lee defending their tag titles against The Usos. The match unfolded as a high-stakes showdown, with all four competitors showcasing their renowned skills and determination. With The Usos hitting their signature 1D move on Dragon Lee to secure the pin, a new era in the World Tag Team division began, underscoring why all participants are celebrated among wrestling’s elite.
Potential Career Finale on the Horizon
AJ Styles, often referred to as The Phenomenal One, has publicly signaled that his time in professional wrestling may be winding down. The recent championship loss could represent his final title run in WWE. As 2025 approaches, discussions about Styles potentially beginning a retirement tour have emerged, with the possibility that he may build toward a farewell match and exit the industry that he has influenced for decades.
A Possible Feud with Gunther
Gunther, known as The Ring General, has established himself as a dominant force in the World Heavyweight title scene, defeating legendary figures like Goldberg and John Cena. After these high-profile victories, Gunther has hinted at targeting new challenges, with AJ Styles emerging as a likely opponent. WWE creatives have reportedly been escalating tension between Gunther and Styles, making a feud between the two a realistic storyline. If realized, such a rivalry could culminate in a major retirement match for Styles, possibly as soon as 2026.
Brock Lesnar Rivalry Could Be Next
Brock Lesnar made his return to WWE during SummerSlam 2025, where he quickly set his sights on John Cena and defeated him at WrestlePalooza 2025. After another stint in WarGames, Lesnar left the scene, but his pattern of returning for major feuds suggests he could target AJ Styles for a final, marquee rivalry. An encounter between Lesnar and Styles would offer fans an “icon vs. icon” matchup, likely drawing significant attention before Styles steps away from wrestling.
Switching Brands: From RAW to SmackDown?
AJ Styles has been a mainstay of WWE RAW for several years, facing off with nearly every top name on the roster. With his loss of the tag championship, there is now speculation that Styles could transition to WWE Friday Night SmackDown—a franchise he has headlined in the past. Such a move could refresh his storyline opportunities and allow him to revisit old rivalries or create new headlines as his career potentially nears its close.
The outcome of the latest RAW event has reshaped the immediate future for AJ Styles. Whether he chooses retirement, takes on Gunther or Brock Lesnar in major storylines, or makes a brand switch, his next steps will be closely watched. With his legacy already secured, AJ Styles WWE future remains a central topic for fans and the wrestling world alike.
