AJ Styles Nearing WWE Retirement: Insider Details Revealed
AJ Styles’ illustrious WWE career reached a pivotal moment at the Royal Rumble. The 48-year-old veteran faced Gunther in a critical match where his career was on the line. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque has stated that Styles is finished in the ring. However, Styles sent mixed signals to his fans after the bout.
Upon concluding the match, Styles teased leaving his gloves in the ring, a traditional retirement gesture. Yet, he ultimately put them back on, indicating that he might not be ready to retire just yet.
Speculation Surrounding AJ Styles’ Future
According to reports from Fightful Select, AJ Styles’ retirement became a hot topic backstage during the January 28 episode of AEW Dynamite. Talents and staff buzzed with speculation about Styles’ next move. Many believe that AEW is keen on bringing him in, considering his close ties with several wrestlers in the promotion. Styles shares a lengthy history with many of them from his independent circuit days and his time in Japan.
Interest from NJPW
Furthermore, there’s notable interest in AJ Styles from New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). The organization is reportedly experiencing a talent exodus and may seek a major star to replace those leaving. Styles previously revitalized his career in NJPW during a dominant two-year run. He has won the IWGP Heavyweight Championship twice and led the Bullet Club, significantly influencing modern wrestling.
A Potential Return to TNA
The situation surrounding TNA Wrestling also remains intriguing. Styles gained fame in TNA and has expressed interest in having one more match with the promotion. Recently, he made appearances related to the TNA-WWE NXT partnership, sparking hope for a potential retirement match.
Interestingly, it has been reported that Styles could have participated in a TNA match while still under his WWE contract if he desired. Despite the swirling rumors of his potential moves to AEW, NJPW, or TNA, his immediate future remains uncertain.
Insiders close to AJ Styles have noted that, while his in-ring career with WWE was anticipated to end at the Royal Rumble, there is still ambiguity about his next steps. Wrestling fans eagerly await further developments in the saga of this legendary performer.
