AJ Styles has been touted as one of the best in-ring performers in wrestling history. The fans witnessed the end of The Phenomenal One’s WWE career at the 2026 Royal Rumble Premium Live Event when he lost a career-threatening match to Gunther. While many believed that it was the last tie between WWE and AJ Styles, a recent announcement suggests that it might not be.
During the broadcast of the February 16 episode of Monday Night RAW, a video package aired showcasing some of the greatest moments from AJ Styles’ career. Following that, Michael Cole announced that RAW will emanate from Styles’ home state next week, Atlanta, Georgia, and will pay tribute to The Face that Runs the Place.
Therefore, it could mean that the WWE Universe might witness an appearance from Styles, who might address the fans post-retirement.
AJ Styles lost to Gunther which marked the end of his WWE career
AJ Styles began a rivalry with Gunther right after the December edition of WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event. It was the night that Gunther tapped out John Cena in his final match as an in-ring performer. Since then, The Ring General had been parading around about the fact of making The Never Seen 17 give up. This irked the wrath of Cena’s former rival, AJ Styles, who began crossing paths with Gunther.
After The Ring General controversially defeated him, Styles demanded a rematch. However, Gunther agreed only if Styles put his illustrious career on the line. At the 2026 Royal Rumble PLE, the duo faced off in a blockbuster showdown. The Phenomenal One brought the fight to the man who has now been dubbed as ‘The Career Killer.’
However, Gunther once again broke the hearts of millions of fans when he trapped Styles in the sleeper hold, and he passed out.
That night marked the end of his WWE career after a decade of being one of their top star. However, Styles’ recent appearance on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast and upcoming tribute night are signs that he might not be done with the Stamford-based promotion. With next week’s RAW looking to be must-see, it remains to be seen if AJ Styles will make an actual appearance on live television.
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