AJ Styles may have wrestled what looked like his final WWE match at Royal Rumble 2026, but if you ask him directly—he’s not completely closing the door. In fact, his latest comments have fans buzzing that The Phenomenal One might still have one more run in him, somewhere down the line.
AJ Styles Teases Possible In-Ring Return
During his emotional match with Gunther at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, Styles put his WWE career on the line—and lost. It appeared to be the end of his in-ring journey, especially after he paused in the ring post-match, contemplated leaving his gloves behind, then surprisingly put them back on and struck his signature pose one last time.
That symbolic moment lit up social media, with fans wondering: Was that really goodbye?
On Stephanie McMahon’s “What’s Your Story” podcast, Styles was asked exactly why he put those gloves back on instead of leaving them behind.
“I don’t know. Never say never, right? That’s the saying. I think everybody’s allowed at least once to come out of retirement. I’m not saying that I’ll do it anytime soon… What if my son wrestles? The opportunity to tag with him once, you never know.”
Styles didn’t confirm anything, but he also didn’t rule out a return—especially if it meant something personal or special. In his own words, “We’ll see.”
WWE Could Shift Styles into Coaching Role
Although Styles has hinted at a possible in-ring return someday, WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H reportedly sees a different path forward for him—coaching.
Much like Shawn Michaels, who now plays a key role in training talent at WWE’s Performance Center, Styles is seen as a natural fit for that type of position. His in-ring IQ, leadership qualities, and experience across the globe make him a valuable asset for future WWE superstars.
Whether or not Styles steps into a full-time coaching role anytime soon is unclear, but the door is certainly open.
Interest From AEW and NJPW Is Growing
While Styles hasn’t made his next move official, his WWE contract is expected to expire soon, likely before the end of February 2026. With free agency looming, it’s no surprise that other top promotions are circling.
AEW:
- According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, AEW is “very interested” in bringing Styles in for a short run.
- Styles has strong relationships with several AEW talents, and given his veteran status, he’d have the freedom to work on his own terms.
NJPW:
- Given Styles’ history with New Japan Pro Wrestling—where he was once the leader of Bullet Club—there’s speculation that NJPW would welcome him back, even for a handful of matches or a farewell tour.
Whether it’s a special attraction match, a run in Japan, or a short AEW storyline, Styles has the credibility and drawing power to make an impact wherever he lands next—if he decides to lace up the boots again.
Why Styles’ Legacy Already Feels Complete
Even if Styles never wrestles another match, his career is already Hall of Fame-worthy. Here’s a quick snapshot of what he’s accomplished:
| Promotion | Achievements |
|---|---|
| WWE | 2x WWE Champion, IC Champion, US Champion, Tag Team Champion |
| TNA/Impact | Multiple-time World Champion, X-Division icon |
| NJPW | Former IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Bullet Club leader |
| Overall | Known for redefining in-ring excellence worldwide |
Few have done what Styles has done across every major promotion—and with a level of consistency that earned him the nickname The Phenomenal One.
