John Cena recently expressed his admiration for WWE Superstar AJ Styles, who is reportedly preparing to exit the wrestling organization. This tribute comes amid growing speculation about Styles’ future following recent matches and events.
AJ Styles has been a significant figure in WWE, and rumors about his possible retirement intensified after Shinsuke Nakamura, whom Styles defeated at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII, inadvertently revealed that Styles might step away from wrestling at the upcoming Royal Rumble Premium Live Event. Styles plans to defend his career in a high-stakes rematch against Gunther scheduled in Saudi Arabia.
The History and Friendship Between Cena and Styles
John Cena and AJ Styles have a well-documented history within WWE, having faced each other multiple times over the years. Their encounters included major title matches, notably when Cena claimed his 16th WWE World Championship by defeating Styles in 2017. Their most recent bout occurred during Cena’s retirement tour at the 2025 Crown Jewel Premium Live Event.
To honor his longtime rival and friend, Cena posted a nostalgic photo from Styles’ TNA wrestling days on Instagram, highlighting their shared journey in professional wrestling.
John Cena’s Reflections on AJ Styles’ Character
Beyond their in-ring rivalry, Cena has praised Styles’ personality and professionalism. In an interview with The Ringer, Cena described Styles as one of the kindest individuals he has worked with in sports entertainment. He recalled searching for any negative comments Styles might have made about others but found none.
“First time ever I’ve worked with AJ Styles. He is the nicest human being in sports entertainment. I can find some energy of like, ‘You said this about me in an interview once’ or like, ‘Man, I don’t like the way you work’ or whatever. AJ’s such a good guy and I sat down, and I’m like, ‘Man, this is going to be okay, why are we fighting?’ He’s like, ‘What do you mean? Why are we fighting? I want to be the champ. That’s not good enough. Take a second to yourself, figure out why we’re fighting’. I went on my bus and scoured the web to try and find anything this guy has ever said. Just anything, a sentence. Never speaks bad about anybody.”
?John Cena, WWE Superstar
Potential End of an Era for AJ Styles
The wrestling community awaits clarification on Styles’ intentions following the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, where he is expected to risk his career in the rematch against Gunther, also known as The Ring General. The outcome could determine whether Styles officially retires or continues his wrestling career. His decision will have a notable impact on WWE’s landscape moving forward.
