After nearly 30 years in the wrestling business, AJ Styles has confirmed that he plans to retire in 2026. This announcement has not only stirred emotions among fans but also sparked discussions about a potential return to TNA Wrestling, the company where he first rose to stardom. With WWE and TNA now working together, many are wondering if Styles will step into a TNA ring one last time before he hangs up his boots.
AJ Styles’ Journey from TNA to WWE
AJ Styles began his wrestling career in the late ’90s but truly made his name in TNA (now again called TNA Wrestling). He was one of the original stars of the company and played a massive role in putting it on the map during the 2000s.
In 2014, after a fallout with TNA management, Styles left the promotion. He then had successful stints in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Ring of Honor (ROH) before finally joining WWE in 2016, where he became a multi-time World Champion and one of the company’s top performers.
Now, with retirement in sight and a renewed partnership between WWE and TNA, fans are hopeful that AJ Styles will have one final match in TNA.
Styles’ Surprise TNA Return at Slammiversary
In 2025, AJ Styles made headlines by returning to a TNA ring for the first time in 11 years. At Slammiversary, he showed up to congratulate Leon Slater, the new X Division Champion, marking a special moment that got fans buzzing.
This surprise appearance reminded everyone of Styles’ deep connection with TNA and opened the door to the possibility of a farewell match — a proper send-off where it all began.
Could AJ Styles Compete in TNA Again?
While nothing has been officially announced, reports suggest that a match is likely. According to Bodyslam.net, people inside WWE believe that Styles will have a match in TNA before his retirement. However, it’s not confirmed whether that match will happen on the AMC debut of Impact Wrestling, or later down the line.
Original Plans for Styles vs Kazarian
There were strong rumours that AJ Styles was originally set to face Frankie Kazarian for the TNA World Championship during the AMC debut episode of Impact. However, those plans reportedly changed, and the show instead featured a rematch between Kazarian and Mike Santana.
Still, Kazarian remains a key figure in these talks. He and Styles have a rich history together, having wrestled countless times in TNA, NJPW, ROH, and the independent scene. Both men have said they’d love to face each other again — and fans would no doubt love to see it too.
What Kazarian Said About a Match with Styles
Speaking to Rewind Recap Relive, Frankie Kazarian shared his thoughts on a possible match with Styles. He mentioned that both of them are open to the idea and believe it’s something the fans really want to see. With years of chemistry and shared history, a one-on-one match between them would be a fitting farewell for AJ.
Possible Opponents for AJ Styles in TNA
While Kazarian seems to be the favourite, Leon Slater also remains a possibility, especially since Styles already interacted with him at Slammiversary. Here are a few dream match possibilities for Styles’ TNA return:
- Frankie Kazarian – A nostalgic clash filled with history.
- Leon Slater – A “passing the torch” moment.
- Mike Santana – A fresh, hard-hitting matchup.
- Josh Alexander – A modern TNA icon vs. the original.
What’s Next for Styles on TNA Impact?
As AJ Styles returns to Impact TV for the first time since 2014, it’s widely believed that seeds will be planted for a future match. Whether it’s a face-off, a backstage segment, or a verbal showdown, tonight’s appearance is expected to set up his next steps in TNA — and possibly his final match.
