Following AJ Styles’ career-impacting defeat against GUNTHER at the Royal Rumble and his subsequent retirement from WWE, speculation continues about whether Styles will return to the wrestling ring. Many within the wrestling community, including Jeff Jarrett, believe that Styles, known as “The Phenomenal One,” is likely to resume wrestling, potentially in promotions like TNA or AEW. Jarrett expressed confidence that despite current circumstances, Styles will step into the squared circle once more.
Jeff Jarrett’s Viewpoint on AJ Styles’ Career Trajectory
Speaking on the podcast My World, Jarrett highlighted that AJ Styles has not yet closed the chapter on his wrestling career. He said,
“We have not seen the last of AJ Styles in the ring, and look, it may be a year, it may be two years … I thought the finish to the match was done really well and both guys got over,”
explaining the significance of the Royal Rumble match’s outcome. Jarrett further praised GUNTHER’s rise to prominence after defeating Styles, stating,
“I think out of Goldberg, [John] Cena, and AJ, out of those three, I thought GUNTHER built more equity in the GUNTHER character by beating AJ than the others by far. And so, I think that was well done. But no, I don’t think we’ve seen the last of it.”
Insights on TKO Group Holdings and AJ Styles’ Departure
Jarrett speculated on the reasons behind Styles’ exit from WWE, pointing toward the role of TKO Group Holdings, which manages WWE’s operations. Jarrett suggested that financial considerations may have influenced the split, adding,
“My gut tells me that AJ is out of that circle because of TKO’s bottom line … It just feels like TKO and him have parted ways, and I’m saying that based solely off of the history you’ve told me about TKO that they just kind of farm guys out.”
He also indicated that Styles could potentially return to WWE or his former home in TNA within two to five years, leaving the door open for a wrestling comeback.
AJ Styles’ Personal Consideration for Wrestling with His Son
While Styles has not publicly shown strong interest in returning to wrestling soon, he remains open to the possibility, especially if it involves sharing the ring alongside his son. This dimension adds a personal motivation that could influence Styles’ future decisions in the wrestling world.
What This Means for the Wrestling Industry
Jeff Jarrett’s assessment suggests that although AJ Styles has stepped away from WWE under challenging circumstances involving TKO Group Holdings, his journey in professional wrestling may not be over. The possibility of his return to major wrestling promotions keeps fans anticipating further developments. Styles’ potential comeback, whether in WWE, TNA, or AEW, could significantly impact the industry, generating renewed interest among audiences and shaping future storylines.
