Report: AJ Styles’ future ‘major point of conversation’ backstage in AEW

Last Saturday, at the WWE Royal Rumble, Gunther defeated AJ Styles in a match that resulted in Styles’ retirement. In the days leading up to the event, Styles’ future became a topic of discussion within All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

AJ Styles’ Contract and Potential Next Steps

Fightful Select previously reported that AJ Styles’ WWE contract was expected to expire in February 2026. However, as of Tuesday, February 2, 2026, there was no confirmation regarding a contract extension and AEW had not reportedly made an offer. The situation became a “major point of conversation backstage in AEW at Dynamite” last Wednesday as speculation arose.

Did You Know? Gunther defeated AJ Styles in a ‘Career Threatening match’ on Saturday, January 31st, 2026.

While Styles’ future with WWE was uncertain, sources indicated he had significant control over the timing of his retirement. WWE sources communicated that Styles could have worked with TNA Wrestling while under contract if he had chosen to do so. A TNA source believed Styles had extended his WWE contract prior to the Royal Rumble, though this was not confirmed. New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) also expressed interest in potentially utilizing Styles.

WWE’s Perspective on Styles’ Departure

According to a WWE source familiar with the situation, AJ Styles “very much” had his way regarding his WWE retirement. While WWE would have been happy to extend his time with the company, Styles had reportedly made his intentions clear.

Expert Insight: The reports suggest that AJ Styles’ departure was largely on his terms, indicating a level of respect and agency afforded to him by WWE despite their desire to retain his services. This highlights the importance of wrestler autonomy in professional wrestling.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does AJ Styles’ WWE contract expire?

AJ Styles’ WWE contract was expected to expire in February 2026, according to Fightful Select.

Was there any interest from other wrestling promotions?

AEW and NJPW were reportedly interested in potentially working with AJ Styles, and WWE sources indicated he could have worked with TNA Wrestling while under contract.

Did AJ Styles want to retire?

A WWE source claimed that Styles “very much” had his way when it came to his WWE retirement, and had made his stance on retirement clear.

What impact will AJ Styles’ departure have on the landscape of professional wrestling?