AJ Styles' WWE Future After Retirement Match Remains Unclear

AJ Styles’ celebrated career in professional wrestling appears to have reached a pivotal moment following a loss at Royal Rumble in Riyadh on January 31. The outcome of his match against GUNTHER has left his future with WWE, and in professional wrestling uncertain.

A Legendary Career

A Multi-Promotion Veteran

Styles’ in-ring career spans multiple prominent wrestling organizations, including WCW, TNA, NJPW, ROH, and WWE. Throughout his career, he has accumulated numerous championships, including being a two-time WWE Champion, IWGP Heavyweight Champion, and TNA World Champion. He is also recognized as a foundational figure in TNA’s X-Division.

Did You Know? AJ Styles recently revisited rivalries with CM Punk and Shinsuke Nakamura prior to his match at the Royal Rumble.

The Uncertain Road Ahead

A Potential Retirement Narrative

Prior to the Royal Rumble, 2026 had been publicly identified as the final year for Styles’ wrestling career. WWE promoted the match against GUNTHER with a narrative suggesting it could be his last. However, Styles’ actions after the match—initially appearing to leave his gloves in the ring before retrieving them—have created ambiguity around his immediate future.

Trademarks and Possibilities

Adding to the uncertainty, Styles recently filed trademarks for his ring name and logo. This action has fueled speculation about his potential plans. It remains unknown whether he could appear in another promotion, such as AEW, transition to a role behind the scenes, or retire from wrestling entirely.

Expert Insight: The filing of trademarks, while not a definitive indicator, suggests Styles is proactively protecting his brand and potentially keeping his options open for future endeavors within or outside of the wrestling ring.

As of today, January 31, Styles is not scheduled to appear on this Monday’s Raw, further contributing to the open-ended nature of his next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the outcome of AJ Styles’ match at the Royal Rumble?

AJ Styles lost to GUNTHER in a career-threatening match at the Royal Rumble on January 31.

Has AJ Styles announced his retirement?

While Styles had indicated 2026 would be his final year, he has not officially announced his retirement following his match at the Royal Rumble.

What could AJ Styles do next?

It is unknown whether Styles will appear in another promotion, work behind the scenes, or retire entirely. He recently filed trademarks for his ring name and logo.

What do you think AJ Styles’ next move will be?

AJ Styles’ WWE Future After Retirement Match Remains Unclear