WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray, also known as Bubba Ray Dudley, recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming Royal Rumble during an appearance on Busted Open Radio. He expressed his strong belief that GUNTHER should emerge victorious against AJ Styles at the event, signaling a pivotal shift in WWE storylines. Bully Ray emphasized that this clash could mark a significant turning point for both wrestlers and the WWE Universe as a whole.
Why Bully Ray Thinks AJ Styles’ Farewell Is Imminent
Addressing the idea of farewell tours in WWE, Bully Ray argued that not every star deserves one like John Cena’s, as it could diminish the uniqueness of Cena’s send-off. He stated,
“If everybody else gets a farewell tour, then John Cena’s farewell tour is not special. The only thing that should be on the agenda is keeping Gunther strong. That’s it. AJ said he was retiring in 2026, right? Okay, it’s 2026, and there’s no better time for AJ Styles to finish up than at the Royal Rumble.”
Bully Ray’s viewpoint underscores his belief that the time has come for AJ Styles’ run in WWE to conclude in a manner that strengthens the momentum of GUNTHER.
AJ Styles’ Legacy and the Future of WWE Championships
Bully Ray acknowledged AJ Styles’ impressive career, especially given that Styles was not originally a WWE creation. He reflected on Styles’ accomplishments and recent performances, saying,
“AJ’s had a great career in the WWE. For somebody who is not created by the WWE, AJ Styles has had one hell of a run.”
However, Bully Ray was clear that he is no longer concerned with whether Styles captures WWE titles again.
“I don’t give a **** if AJ Styles wins a championship again. I’m not interested. I’m more interested in AJ going out in a manner that catapults Gunther to the next level.”
His comments suggest a focus on elevating new talent and creating fresh storylines for the WWE Universe.
Potential Impact on WWE’s Direction Post-Royal Rumble
This anticipated outcome at the Royal Rumble carries significant implications for WWE’s future. If GUNTHER defeats AJ Styles, it could serve as a powerful message to fans and solidify GUNTHER’s status as a dominant force in the company. Bully Ray’s perspective reflects a sense of urgency and frustration about WWE’s handling of legacy stars like Styles and the need to refresh the roster’s hierarchy. The event may well be a turning point, marking the end of an era for AJ Styles while paving the way for new rivalries and champions.
