Backstage speculation surfaces amid questions about Styles’ next move
Summary
– AEW talent reportedly discussed AJ Styles before his Royal Rumble retirement match
– Speculation increased ahead of Styles’ loss to GUNTHER in a career-ending bout
– WWE has also held talks about a possible backstage role for Styles
AJ Styles’ WWE in-ring career may have ended at Royal Rumble, but discussion around his future is far from settled.
During the February 1, 2026, post-Royal Rumble show, Sean Ross Sapp revealed that conversations within AEW had intensified ahead of Styles’ final WWE match against GUNTHER. According to Sapp, the idea of Styles potentially joining AEW was openly discussed backstage.
Sapp noted that speculation was widespread, with many AEW personnel discussing the possibility during a recent Dynamite taping. The chatter occurred before Styles officially competed in what was billed as a career-threatening match in Riyadh.
The timing of those discussions is notable. WWE confirmed Styles’ in-ring retirement following his loss to GUNTHER, which ended when Styles passed out in a sleeper hold. The finish made it clear that his days as an active competitor in WWE are over.
At the same time, WWE has not closed the door on Styles entirely. Triple H has stated that discussions have taken place regarding Styles remaining with the company in a non-wrestling capacity. He indicated that Styles personally told him he was finished with in-ring competition and suggested a potential mentorship or production role similar to Shawn Michaels.
Adding to the uncertainty, Styles has recently filed trademarks for his name and logo. Those filings have fueled speculation that he may be considering options beyond WWE, whether in another company or in a different creative role.
With AEW already talking and WWE hoping to keep him involved behind the scenes, AJ Styles’ future remains one of the most intriguing stories to watch following Royal Rumble.
