AJ Styles, one of the most respected performers in modern professional wrestling, has officially retired from in-ring competition in WWE. The emotional moment happened during the February 23 episode of WWE Raw in Atlanta, Georgia — Styles’ hometown. The “Phenomenal One” left his jacket and gloves in the ring, marking the end of an incredible career.
However, his journey with WWE is far from over. Shortly after announcing his retirement, Styles revealed he will continue working with the company in an important backstage role that focuses on scouting and mentoring talent.
AJ Styles Retires During Emotional WWE Raw Segment
The retirement segment took place in front of a hometown crowd in Atlanta. During the moment, Styles symbolically left his gloves and jacket in the ring — a traditional wrestling gesture that signals the end of a wrestler’s in-ring career.
The moment became even more special when The Undertaker appeared and announced that Styles would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class.
Styles will join other inductees including Stephanie McMahon and the legendary tag team Demolition during the ceremony in Las Vegas next month.
The honor recognizes a career that includes multiple championships and achievements, including becoming a Grand Slam Champion in WWE.
AJ Styles’ New Role in WWE
Although Styles has stepped away from active competition, he will now work behind the scenes helping shape the future of WWE talent.
During his podcast, he explained that part of his new job will involve scouting wrestlers and helping them develop their skills.
Styles said he will:
- Watch independent wrestling talent online
- Help promising wrestlers potentially receive a WWE ID or opportunity
- Work with developing talent in NXT
- Offer advice and support to main roster performers
He also mentioned that he will travel to events and speak directly with wrestlers to help improve morale and performance.
His role could involve helping wrestlers decide whether they should train at the WWE Performance Center to refine their skills.
Working With Indie Talent, NXT, and WWE Superstars
Styles explained that his responsibilities will extend across several levels of the wrestling industry.
He will evaluate:
- Independent wrestling talent
- Developmental talent in WWE NXT
- Established performers on the main roster
Because of his experience and reputation, many believe wrestlers will benefit greatly from his guidance.
Styles has competed around the world for decades, earning respect across multiple promotions before becoming a major star in WWE.
AJ Styles Training the Next Generation
Styles also revealed that his connection to wrestling will continue through his family.
During the podcast, he confirmed he is currently training his son to become a professional wrestler. If that path continues, a second-generation wrestler named Styles could eventually appear in WWE.
If that happens, it’s likely the young wrestler would begin training at the WWE Performance Center and potentially debut in NXT in the future.
Why AJ Styles’ New Role Matters
Few wrestlers in history have the experience that Styles brings to the table.
Before joining WWE, he built a legendary reputation around the world, and his WWE career added major championships, iconic matches, and a Grand Slam achievement.
Because of that background, many believe his new position could play a key role in discovering and developing future wrestling stars.
Past WWE scouts have helped bring great talent into the company, but Styles’ level of in-ring experience and credibility may make him especially effective in identifying future champions.
FAQs
What happened to AJ Styles in WWE?
AJ Styles retired from in-ring competition during a February 23 episode of WWE Raw in Atlanta.
Is AJ Styles leaving WWE?
No. He is staying with WWE and will work in a backstage role focused on scouting and mentoring talent.
When will AJ Styles enter the WWE Hall of Fame?
AJ Styles will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class.
What will AJ Styles do in his new WWE role?
He will scout new talent, help develop wrestlers in NXT, and provide guidance to WWE performers.
Is AJ Styles training his son to wrestle?
Yes. Styles confirmed he is currently training his son, who may pursue a professional wrestling career.
