AJ Styles faced a potentially career-defining loss to GUNTHER at the 2026 Royal Rumble, but retirement is not definite, and his WWE contract status remains unsettled. Discussions between Styles and WWE about a new contract were ongoing before the event, though no agreement was reached in time, leading WWE to present the match against GUNTHER as a possible farewell.
Ongoing Negotiations and Potential Free Agency
Reports from PWInsider indicate that talks between Styles and WWE continue, yet no new contract has been signed, leaving Styles in a state where he could entertain offers from other promotions if his current deal expires. Despite this, insiders suggest there is no imminent plan for Styles to compete elsewhere in the near future.
Styles Hints at Possible Future in Wrestling
In a recent appearance on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, Styles addressed his in-ring retirement ambiguity. He revealed why he left his gloves in the ring after the Royal Rumble, implying he may not be ready to fully retire. Styles mentioned the possibility of returning to team up with his son for a special moment, indicating that his wrestling career might not be over.
“I don’t know. Never say never, right? That’s the saying. I think everybody’s allowed at least once to come out of retirement. I’m not saying that I’ll do it anytime soon. What if my son wrestles? The opportunity to tag with him once? You never know. So, there’ll be a time when the gloves never go back on. It may be now, but we’ll see.” – AJ Styles
Legacy and Fan Interest in Styles’ Next Steps
At 48 years old, AJ Styles is already recognized as one of WWE’s great performers, with his career accomplishments firmly established. Still, the prospect that he could return for one last run keeps fans eager to see what happens next. His uncertain status has created significant anticipation in the wrestling community.
What’s Ahead for AJ Styles and WWE
The future trajectory of AJ Styles remains uncertain, with the potential either for a celebrated return or a final farewell. WWE watchers and supporters remain divided over whether the company will bring Styles back for a concluding chapter or let his current match represent the perfect end to his tenure. Meanwhile, news sources continue to track updates from WWE and Styles as negotiations unfold.
