SmackDown stars reportedly flying in for tribute segment
Summary
– AJ Styles set for special appearance on February 23 RAW in Atlanta
– SmackDown talent reportedly being brought in for celebration
– Segment follows his storyline retirement at Royal Rumble 2026
WWE is reportedly planning something significant for AJ Styles on the upcoming February 23 episode of RAW.
The show will take place in Atlanta, Georgia, a city closely tied to Styles’ career and wrestling roots. After being forced into storyline retirement by GUNTHER at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, Styles is now advertised for what will be his first on-screen appearance since that loss.
According to Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline, additional SmackDown talent is being flown in specifically for the segment. That move suggests WWE is building toward more than a routine promo or brief cameo.
Atlanta carries historic importance in professional wrestling and personal significance for Styles, who built his reputation throughout the Georgia wrestling scene before becoming a global star. Bringing in cross-brand talent indicates WWE intends to present the segment as a meaningful tribute rather than a standard television appearance.
With SmackDown names reportedly traveling and the setting rooted in Styles’ legacy, RAW appears poised to deliver a celebration that acknowledges the impact of his Hall of Fame-level career.
