Imagine one of the most iconic wrestlers of our time suddenly becoming the center of backstage whispers and speculation. That’s exactly what happened with AJ Styles, whose future has sparked intense conversations, especially within AEW. But here’s where it gets controversial: just days before his high-profile match at the WWE Royal Rumble, where Gunther ultimately defeated him, Styles’ potential next steps were already a hot topic behind the scenes at AEW’s Dynamite. Could this wrestling legend be on the move? Let’s dive in.
According to Fightful Select, Styles’ WWE contract was reportedly set to expire in February 2026, though details about an extension remain unclear. What’s fascinating is that his future became a ‘major point of conversation’ backstage in AEW last Wednesday, with insiders speculating about his next move. However, as of Tuesday, there was no confirmation of AEW making an official offer. And this is the part most people miss: while Styles’ retirement match at the Rumble seemed definitive, his post-WWE plans are anything but settled.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: TNA Wrestling. WWE sources revealed that if Styles had wanted to work with TNA, he could have done so while still under his WWE contract. Interestingly, a TNA insider believed Styles had already extended his WWE deal before the Rumble, though this remains unconfirmed. Meanwhile, NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling) was reportedly eager to bring Styles on board, especially as they faced talent losses. But here’s the kicker: did Styles truly retire, or is there more to the story?
In a deeper dive by Fightful Select, a WWE source close to Styles’ situation emphasized that, regardless of future developments, Styles ‘very much’ had his way when it came to his WWE retirement. Another insider noted that while WWE would gladly keep him, Styles has been clear about his retirement stance. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Could Styles’ retirement be temporary, or is this the end of an era? Weigh in below—what do you think?
For those unfamiliar, AJ Styles is a wrestling legend known for his incredible athleticism and charisma. His potential departure from WWE has left fans and insiders alike wondering what’s next. And let’s not forget the broader implications: if a star like Styles can shift alliances, what does that mean for the wrestling world’s future?
Shounak Chakrabarti, the seasoned sports journalist behind this story, brings a wealth of experience to the table. With a Master’s in International Journalism from the University of Leeds and a passion for athletics, he’s been a key voice at F4WOnline since 2025. Beyond wrestling, Shounak’s interests span soccer (he’s a die-hard Real Madrid and Arsenal fan), fiction writing, photography, gaming, and cinema. His unique perspective adds depth to every story he covers.
So, what’s your take? Is AJ Styles truly done with WWE, or is this just the beginning of a new chapter? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
