3 Surprises WWE Can Pull During AJ Styles’ Tribute On Raw 2/23

AJ Styles hung up his wrestling boots after losing to Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble.

WWE is set to hold a special tribute segment for Styles on the February 23, 2026, episode of Monday Night Raw. The Phenomenal One is scheduled to address the WWE Universe “one final time” during the broadcast. Talents from SmackDown are reportedly being flown in to take part in the ceremony, making it a company-wide celebration.

While it appears that Styles will deliver a heartfelt goodbye promo before riding off into the sunset, WWE could still pull the trigger on a surprise that fans may not see coming.

1. AJ Styles Takes Up On-Screen Authority Figure Role

AJ Styles has previously stated in interviews that he would like to remain connected with WWE even after his in-ring retirement. Given his veteran credibility and deep knowledge of the business, WWE could keep him involved in a non-wrestling capacity. One possibility is appointing Styles as an on-screen authority figure on Raw this week.

2. Styles’ Hall of Fame Induction

AJ Styles enjoyed a three-decade-long wrestling career, including a highly successful decade in WWE. To cement his wrestling legacy forever, the company could announce his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026 on Raw.

3. Clash with Gunther

Gunther is the man who ended AJ Styles’ in-ring career. Like a true heel, he could interrupt Styles’ celebration on Raw, sparking one final confrontation. This could potentially lure The Phenomenal One back into the ring for one last match, setting the stage for a showdown at WrestleMania 42.

Many fans were unhappy with AJ Styles’ retirement at the Royal Rumble, and such an angle would allow him to receive a more fitting and emotional send-off on WWE’s grandest stage.

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