Former champion now focuses on scouting and mentoring talent
Summary
– AJ Styles retired from in-ring competition after the 2026 Royal Rumble
– His new WWE role includes scouting independent and NXT talent
– Styles is also mentoring wrestlers and supporting talent development
AJ Styles may no longer be competing inside a WWE ring, but the former champion is already staying active in a new role behind the scenes.
Speaking on his Phenomenally Retro podcast, Styles explained that his current responsibilities involve evaluating talent across multiple levels of professional wrestling. A large part of his job now includes watching wrestlers online and identifying ways he can help them improve.
Styles said he regularly reviews footage of performers to see where guidance might make a difference. If someone shows potential to move closer to WWE or earn opportunities within the company, he hopes to play a role in helping them take the next step.
The position also extends beyond scouting independent wrestlers. Styles noted that he will work with talent across WWE’s system, including performers in NXT and sometimes even members of the main roster.
Travel is also part of the job. Styles revealed he will attend WWE events to speak directly with talent and offer mentorship when needed. That support could involve discussing career goals, improving specific skills, or connecting wrestlers with resources such as additional training at the Performance Center.
According to Styles, maintaining strong morale among wrestlers is another key responsibility. He wants talent to feel supported as they grow within the company.
Styles officially stepped away from in-ring competition after losing to Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble. The moment marked the end of a long career that included multiple championships and some of the most memorable matches of his generation.
After his retirement, WWE honored Styles on RAW and later announced that he would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Now the Phenomenal One is turning his attention toward helping shape the future of WWE from behind the scenes.
