One of the most respected names in modern pro wrestling, AJ Styles, has officially wrestled his final match in WWE. The Phenomenal One bowed out at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia after a hard-fought battle against Gunther—a match that came with one huge stipulation: if Styles lost, he would have to leave WWE. Sadly for fans, that’s exactly what happened.
AJ Styles Loses to Gunther, Ends WWE Career
AJ Styles gave everything he had in his showdown with Gunther, even landing his signature Styles Clash, which nearly ended the match. But in the end, Gunther locked in a brutal sleeper hold, and Styles passed out—marking the end of his WWE career.
Styles now joins names like John Cena and Goldberg, who also had emotional farewell matches in the past year. His departure brings an end to one of the most impressive careers in modern wrestling, both in WWE and globally.
Roman Reigns Wins the Rumble, Chooses CM Punk for WrestleMania
While Styles was saying goodbye, Roman Reigns had a very different kind of night at the Royal Rumble. The Tribal Chief returned to dominate the 30-man match and came out the winner. Now, he’s locked in for a WrestleMania 42 main event against CM Punk for the World Championship this April.
Despite their very different journeys at the Rumble, Reigns took time to pay tribute to his former rival.
Roman Reigns Bids Farewell to AJ Styles
Speaking on the latest episode of What’s Your Story with Stephanie McMahon, Roman Reigns offered heartfelt words for AJ Styles following his retirement.
“Hell of a worker. Hell of a teammate… Just an old ass video game, brother, but that reflects who he is as a person. The discipline he has. Being involved in professional wrestling, being on the road, and still staying true as a family man and father.”
Reigns praised their past matches and admitted he wished they had the chance to create more in-ring magic.
“We made some art together. It would’ve been cool to run it back again. There’s phenomenal chemistry there. Big Allen, have fun and be safe, brother. We’ll see you down the road.”
The two clashed twice in 2016, with Reigns successfully defending his world title both times, but their chemistry in the ring left fans wanting more.
AJ Styles’ Legacy in WWE and Beyond
Though Styles didn’t capture the world title in his matches with Reigns, he’s far from a forgotten champion. His accomplishments include:
- 2-time WWE World Champion
- Former Intercontinental Champion, United States Champion, and Tag Team Champion
- Multiple-time World Champion in TNA, NJPW, and other promotions
- Known for high-level storytelling, technical excellence, and unmatched in-ring style
Styles entered WWE in 2016 and quickly became a top-tier performer, winning championships and delivering classics with stars like John Cena, Daniel Bryan, and Randy Orton.
The Symbolism of the Gloves
On What’s Your Story, Styles spoke about his decision to put on his gloves after the match, rather than leaving them in the ring like most retiring wrestlers.
For Styles, this was a nod to his personal story. Rather than symbolizing an end, putting on the gloves represented who he was, and always will be—a wrestler through and through. Not flashy, just authentic.
