AJ Styles received a heartfelt tribute from his former tag team partner, Dragon Lee, who honored him with a classic finishing move during a recent bout. In 2025, WWE reunited Styles and Lee to capture the World Tag Team Championship from Finn Balor and JD McDonagh of The Judgment Day. The pair held the titles for 70 days before The Usos claimed them on RAW in late December.
After AJ Styles was abruptly retired by Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble, Dragon Lee continued to target Styles’ legacy by launching attacks on The Ring General whenever possible. Despite the aggressive pursuit, Styles appeared unaffected, maintaining the respect he commands in the ring.
On social media, AAA shared footage of Dragon Lee executing the iconic Styles Clash against Jack Cartwheel, a move famously associated with AJ Styles, during a recent match. This gesture served as a moving tribute to the two-time World Heavyweight Champion’s career.
STYLES CLASH!#AAAenFOXpic.twitter.com/71RQOBLLwS
— Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (@luchalibreaaa) March 1, 2026
Gunther’s Recent Retirements Highlight WWE’s Era of Veterans Passing the Torch
In the past year, Gunther has been instrumental in retiring several WWE legends, including Bill Goldberg in July, John Cena in December, and AJ Styles in January 2026. While Dragon Lee’s continuous pursuit of Gunther may seem like a less formidable challenge compared to these iconic veterans, this ongoing narrative reflects Gunther’s current focus on transitioning established stars out of active competition.
Dragon Lee’s growing prominence within WWE is clear, as the company frequently positions him opposite top-tier talents such as AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio on RAW. This consistent spotlight demonstrates his status as a rising star, further fueled by the recognition he receives backstage.
Possible Future Showdowns and Alliances in WWE’s Evolving Landscape
Though no official announcements have been made, speculation surrounds the possibility of Rey Mysterio facing Gunther at WrestleMania 42. Mysterio, inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2023 and now 51 years old, has formed a faction with Penta and Dragon Lee called The Vision. This faction acts as a counter to Paul Heyman’s influence on RAW and signals strategic alliances within WWE storylines.
Mysterio recently teamed with Dragon Lee at the AAA Guerra de Titanes event, stepping in for an injured Penta, further solidifying their partnership. While Mysterio’s schedule is currently light, his role as a bridge between generations enhances the narrative significance of any potential clash with Gunther, whose moniker “The Career Killer” underscores his in-ring authority.
As WWE navigates the retirement of notable veterans, the evolving dynamics between Gunther, Dragon Lee, and Rey Mysterio hint at a thoughtful transition period designed to elevate emerging talents while honoring the legacies of established stars like AJ Styles.
STYLES CLASH!#AAAenFOX pic.twitter.com/71RQOBLLwS
— Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (@luchalibreaaa) March 1, 2026
