AJ Styles, one of the most respected names in professional wrestling, is possibly just days away from closing the book on a legendary in-ring career. At this year’s WWE Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Phenomenal One puts it all on the line against Gunther—a man known for ending careers and breaking records.
Styles has been open about his intention to hang up his boots by the end of 2026. But now, there’s growing belief that this Saturday might mark the end far earlier than expected.
AJ Styles’ Last Stand?
In a career spanning more than two decades, AJ Styles has accomplished it all. From TNA, to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and finally in WWE, Styles has earned the label of “all-time great” with achievements to back it up:
- 2-time WWE Champion
- 3-time United States Champion
- 2-time World Tag Team Champion
- Former Intercontinental Champion
His time in WWE has been filled with unforgettable matches, championship reigns, and consistent excellence. But now, with a match against The Ring General Gunther—arguably the most dominant force in WWE today—Styles is gambling his career for one more shot at greatness.
Triple H Confirms: Styles Has a Dream Match List
Appearing on ESPN’s Unsportsmanlike, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque shared that Styles has been building a private list of dream opponents he’d like to face before he officially retires.
“AJ Styles has not made it a secret this year—2026—is going to be his last in-ring year… I know he’s with me every week, making a list of people that he would want to face.”
— Triple H on Unsportsmanlike
Triple H also made it clear that while he hopes Styles gets to fulfill those dream matches, the outcome of Saturday’s match could very well determine if that list ever becomes reality.
Nakamura’s Deleted Post Sparks Retirement Rumors
Fueling speculation even further was a now-deleted Instagram post by Shinsuke Nakamura, who hinted that AJ Styles had already made up his mind to retire at the Royal Rumble.
“I asked him, ‘When are you going to retire?’ He answered, ‘The Royal Rumble. I’ve already decided.’”
— Shinsuke Nakamura via Instagram
While it’s unclear whether Nakamura’s post was a spoiler or just an emotional reflection, it has led fans to brace for the worst—that this could truly be Styles’ final match in WWE.
Gunther: The Career Killer?
Gunther has built a reputation for dominating his opponents and ending careers. If he defeats Styles on Saturday, he’ll add yet another name to a growing list of legends he’s humbled in the ring. Ending the career of someone as decorated as AJ Styles would be a massive milestone—even for someone of Gunther’s calibre.
With WrestleMania 42 just around the corner, the timing of Styles’ possible retirement has shocked many. A Royal Rumble exit seems sudden for a performer of his stature. Yet, it could also be fitting: after all, Styles made his WWE debut at the Royal Rumble in 2016. Ending his journey where it began could bring things full circle.
