Hall of Famer transitions into backstage developmental role
Summary
– AJ Styles has signed a new deal with WWE after retiring from in-ring action
– Reports indicate he will work behind the scenes, developing talent
– The move ends speculation about a potential AEW run
AJ Styles may be done competing inside the ropes, but his relationship with WWE is far from over. Just days after his emotional farewell on Raw, confirmation has arrived that Styles has secured a new agreement with the company.
Styles officially retired following his Royal Rumble loss to GUNTHER. WWE honored him on the February 23, 2026, episode of Raw, where The Undertaker appeared to announce his upcoming induction into the WWE Hall of Fame during WrestleMania 42 weekend. The tribute immediately sparked questions about whether Styles would explore options elsewhere.
According to PWInsider, multiple sources have confirmed that Styles and WWE have finalized a new contract. The expectation is that he will transition into a backstage role focused on talent development.
The direction aligns with Styles’ recent comments about wanting to mentor younger performers. He previously stated that helping talent gain confidence and reach their full potential would be a blessing. Rather than testing free agency or entertaining interest from other promotions, Styles chose stability and long-term impact within WWE.
With his Hall of Fame induction on the horizon and a new agreement now in place, Styles begins a different chapter of his career. Instead of chasing championships, he will now help shape the next generation of WWE Superstars.
