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Is AJ Styles’ WWE Retirement Final? Truth Revealed

By Monika Thapa • Published Feb 01, 2026 06:14 EST
AJ Styles WWE

AJ Styles lost his match against Gunther at the Royal Rumble.

During the 2026 Royal Rumble, Styles put his career on the line against The Ring General. Since he lost the match, he was forced to retire from in-ring competition. However, fans have been left confused about whether Styles has truly hung up his boots.

After losing to Gunther, Styles spent several moments in the ring soaking in the crowd’s reaction and chants. The segment was emotional, as fans saw him struggle to accept his retirement.

Styles removed his gloves and nearly placed them in the middle of the ring as a symbol of retirement, but he ultimately put them back on. This moment led many to believe that Styles might not actually be retired.

AJ Styles Has Retired

Following the WWE Royal Rumble 2026 premium live event, Peter Rosenberg confirmed that AJ Styles is indeed retired. Rosenberg stated that although Styles returned to the ring briefly for a second round of applause, he is very much retired.

He added that he personally spoke with Styles, who confirmed that he has officially hung up his wrestling boots. Rosenberg emphasized that Styles is a man of his word, so when he said he would put his career on the line, he meant it, and as of now, AJ Styles is officially retired.

“So just to be clear, ’cause I know AJ went back into the ring, he went up there, took in a second round of applause. I spoke to AJ. It is very much the end. This is it for AJ Styles. He is not the kind of guy who goes back on his word when he says he’s having a match with his career on the line.”

Although Styles has retired, his WWE career may not be over.

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