At the Royal Rumble 2026 event in Saudi Arabia, AJ Styles‘ wrestling career came to an end after he passed out while trapped in Gunther’s sleeper hold, resulting in a critical loss. The former WWE Champion known as The Phenomenal One has officially retired, marking the close of an era in professional wrestling. Dominik Mysterio, who holds both the WWE Intercontinental and AAA Mega Championships, expressed his genuine sadness on social media, visibly stepping out of his usual heel persona to acknowledge Styles’ retirement.
Earlier at SummerSlam 2025, Dominik Mysterio, nicknamed Dirty Dom, had successfully defended his Intercontinental Championship against AJ Styles, underscoring their significant rivalry over recent months.
Fans Voice Disapproval of Triple H During Royal Rumble Post-Show
During the Royal Rumble post-show held in Saudi Arabia, WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H was met with a series of negative chants from the audience. These chants included calls for other wrestling promotions and personalities, illustrating the fans’ frustration and demands at the event.
The list of notable chants directed at Triple H included:
– “Y2J”
– “AEW”
– “Baldy”
– “We Want Vince”
– “You F**ked Up”
Triple H Passes the “Cerebral Assassin” Nickname to Roman Reigns
Roman Reigns secured victory in the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble match by eliminating Gunther, earning himself a WrestleMania 42 main event spot. Showcasing respect for Reigns, Triple H shared insights about the champion’s intellect and strategy in the wrestling business.
He is one of the most strategic and well-thought out individuals in this business right now. I was given a nickname, Cerebral Assassin, by Jim Ross. It would be a name I would use for Roman Reigns. One of the greatest thinkers in this business.
?Triple H, WWE Chief Content Officer
Drew McIntyre Challenges Roman Reigns After Royal Rumble Victory
Following his successful defense of the Undisputed WWE Championship against Sami Zayn at Royal Rumble 2026, Drew McIntyre was asked about a potential match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42. The Scottish Psychopath boldly issued a challenge to Reigns, underscoring the deep rivalry between them.
Roman Reigns? Ohh, there’s a big enemy of Drew McIntyre. His Bloodline made my life a living hell for so long. So if he wants to pick Drew McIntyre, I know he’s on his own now. On his own, I would destroy Roman Reigns. Go for it, Roman. Pick me. Let’s main event WrestleMania and I will drop your ar$e. I’m unbeatable right now.
?Drew McIntyre, Undisputed WWE Champion
John Cena Honors AJ Styles Following Retirement Announcement
Months after his own retirement, John Cena paid tribute to AJ Styles on Twitter after Styles concluded his career due to the loss at Royal Rumble 2026.
Phenomenal is an understatement. Respect is earned and few are more worthy of universal industry wide respect than AJ Styles. Thank you AJ for all you’ve done for wrestling. From anyone who’s seen you and those lucky enough to share canvas with you.
?John Cena, 17-time World Champion
The two wrestling icons last shared the ring at Crown Jewel 2025 in Perth, Australia, where Cena secured a victory over Styles in a memorable encounter.
Reason Behind Powerhouse Hobbs’ WWE Renaming Revealed
During the Men’s Royal Rumble match, former AEW star Powerhouse Hobbs made his WWE debut under the new ring name Royce Keys. His performance concluded with elimination at the hands of Big Bronson Reed.
The decision behind Hobbs’ new name reflects personal significance. According to Fightful Select, “Royce” honors Hobbs’ youngest son, while “Keys” is derived from the maiden name of his late mother, adding a deeply meaningful layer to his WWE identity.
WELCOME, ROYCE KEYS!!! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/q1t9DD0t6Z
— WWE (@WWE) January 31, 2026
