AJ Styles recently retired from WWE at Royal Rumble 2026, ending a storied career that captured the attention of wrestling fans worldwide. However, speculation remains whether Styles might return for one last run in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), prompted by growing calls for a dream match that fans and insiders alike eagerly anticipate.
The Phenomenal One risked his career in a high-stakes match against Gunther at the PLE, yet it remains unclear if he intends to retire from professional wrestling entirely or simply leave WWE. A moment of hesitation at the end of his final match, when Styles kept his gloves on while leaving the ring, fueled rumors he may still be considering additional matches beyond his WWE tenure.
Support From Rising Stars Fuels Hopes of AEW Match
Will Ospreay, a top talent who regards AJ Styles as a major influence, expressed admiration for him and openly wishes for Styles to join AEW. Shortly after Styles announced his retirement, Ospreay tweeted a message paying tribute to the veteran, signaling the high regard in which Styles is held by the new generation of wrestlers.
Meanwhile, AEW president Tony Khan is reportedly contemplating persuading Styles to embark on a farewell tour within AEW, similar to how he orchestrated retirement runs for legends like Sting and Bryan Danielson. Khan could potentially grant Styles the freedom to choose his opponents, culminating in a marquee match against Ospreay at a flagship event such as AEW All In.
Insights From Industry Insiders Confirm Styles’ Decision
During the Royal Rumble post-show, wrestling personality Peter Rosenberg shared his conversation with AJ Styles regarding the nature of his retirement. Rosenberg noted that although Styles briefly returned to the ring for an additional round of applause, the former WWE Champion made it clear to him that his decision to retire was final.
“So just to be clear cause I know AJ went back into the ring. He went up there [and] took a second round of applause. I spoke to AJ, [and] it is very much the end. This is it for AJ Styles. He’s not the kind of guy who goes back on his word when he says he’s having a match with his career on the line. [Big] E and I sat there and watched him greet the entire men’s locker room. It was one of the great shows of respect I’ve ever seen (…) I went up to him, I’m like, ‘You’re really done?’ He’s like, ‘I’m done.’ I said, ‘You still look incredible in the ring.’ And he’s like, ‘I wanna get out before you see any different version of me,'” Rosenberg said.
Rosenberg’s account underscores the respect Styles commands within wrestling circles and suggests the Phenomenal One wants to conclude his wrestling career while still performing at his best.
Potential Impact of an AEW Retirement Tour
Despite strong indications that AJ Styles is finished with WWE, wrestling history shows careers can end only to be reignited, especially in a promotion eager to book dream matches. Should Tony Khan succeed in bringing Styles to AEW, it would not only provide fans an extraordinary finale for one of wrestling’s most talented performers but also bolster AEW’s status by adding a legendary figure to its roster during a landmark moment.
A retirement run in AEW might also offer Styles the creative control needed to craft memorable bouts befitting his legacy, while providing opportunities for up-and-coming stars to share the ring with a widely respected veteran. Even if this scenario does not materialize, Styles’ retirement closes a significant chapter in wrestling with dignity and fanfare, leaving an open question about where his future might lead.
Phenomenal
— Will Ospreay • ウィル・オスプレイ (@WillOspreay) January 31, 2026
