AJ Styles’ in-ring career with WWE has officially come to an end following an emotional and hard-fought match at the 2026 Royal Rumble. While the result marked the end of his time in WWE, fans around the world are buzzing with excitement over the possibility of AJ stepping back into the ring somewhere else. And when it comes to dream matches, the possibilities are endless.
AJ Styles Bids Farewell to WWE at Royal Rumble 2026
At the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, Styles took on Gunther in a brutal match where his WWE career was on the line. Despite connecting with his iconic Phenomenal Forearm and Styles Clash, Gunther proved too much. Styles ultimately tapped out to a sleeper choke—the same move that ended the careers of John Cena and Goldberg last year.
Triple H, during the post-show press conference, said he didn’t expect Styles to wrestle elsewhere. But in pro wrestling, “never say never” is more than just a cliché—it’s a reality.
Dream Matches for AJ Styles Outside WWE
While WWE may be behind him, AJ Styles has roots across the wrestling world—TNA, NJPW, ROH, and countless indies. Here are five incredible dream matches that could define the next chapter of his career.
1. AJ Styles vs. Will Ospreay
Why it’s a dream match:
Two of the most innovative high-flyers in wrestling history squaring off is something fans have wanted for years. Both men are dynamic, constantly evolving, and masters at creating exciting in-ring motion.
Where it could happen: AEW or NJPW
What to expect:
Expect a fast-paced, highly creative match filled with reversals, counters, and awe-inspiring athleticism. A clash of eras and styles that would keep the audience glued from bell to bell.
2. AJ Styles vs. Kenny Omega
Why it’s a dream match:
This one comes with history. Before joining WWE, Styles was ousted from the Bullet Club by Kenny Omega in New Japan Pro Wrestling. The story writes itself, and AEW would be the perfect place for revenge or closure.
Where it could happen: AEW
What to expect:
An epic clash between two of the greatest in-ring performers of the modern era. A match filled with emotion, history, and unforgettable wrestling sequences.
3. AJ Styles vs. Leon Slater
Why it’s a dream match:
AJ Styles helped put TNA’s X-Division on the map. Leon Slater, the current champion, carries that legacy forward. A match between them would be like watching teacher vs. student.
Where it could happen: TNA (formerly Impact Wrestling)
What to expect:
A high-flying, quick-paced bout that mixes storytelling with action. This could serve as a symbolic passing of the torch from one X-Division legend to another.
4. AJ Styles vs. Yota Tsuji
Why it’s a dream match:
With most of AJ’s old New Japan rivals gone, a fresh face like Yota Tsuji, the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, is the perfect opponent. Tsuji represents NJPW’s new era.
Where it could happen: NJPW
What to expect:
A blend of Strong Style and traditional storytelling. Styles still has the tools to thrive in NJPW, and Tsuji could benefit massively from facing a legend.
5. AJ Styles vs. MJF
Why it’s a dream match:
MJF thrives in the “legend killer” role, and a bout with Styles fits perfectly into that formula. MJF’s mic skills would add fire to the build, while both men could deliver a classic in-ring performance.
Where it could happen: AEW
What to expect:
A psychological battle as much as a physical one. Think MJF vs. Bryan Danielson meets Styles vs. Cena—a match that blends storytelling, ego, and elite-level wrestling.
