AJ Styles’ path to retirement is now being shaped from inside WWE’s creative offices, and Triple H says the former world champion is taking a hands-on role in planning his final year.
Speaking with ESPN’s Unsportsmanlike, Paul “Triple H” Levesque confirmed that 2026 is expected to be the last year of Styles’ in-ring career. Rather than simply winding down, Styles is actively working with WWE management to map out the opponents he wants to face before stepping away.
“He has a lot of goals and a lot of people,” Levesque said. “I know he’s with me every week, making a list of people that he would want to face and that he wants to meet in the ring before he retires.”
Styles’ farewell run is set to begin in dramatic fashion at the Royal Rumble, where he is scheduled to face Gunther in a match with his career on the line. Triple H noted that the bout carries personal meaning for Styles, stemming from Gunther’s treatment of John Cena in recent months. Gunther forced Cena to quit in what became Cena’s final match, something that did not sit well with Styles.
While Levesque admitted he would prefer to keep Styles around longer, he emphasised that the decision-making rests firmly with the wrestler himself. Styles is said to be carefully choosing the matches that will define the final chapter of his career.
Rather than simply counting down the days, Styles is constructing a farewell run built around meaningful opponents and unfinished business, starting with Gunther and continuing with names he considers essential to face before retirement.
What Did Triple H Say About Surprises At The Royal Rumble?
Triple H says fans should expect “lots of surprises” at this weekend’s Royal Rumble, calling it one of the most star-studded editions he can remember. “The Game” highlighted major names in the men’s match, including Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, Randy Orton, Jey Uso, Bron Breakker and Logan Paul, while also praising the women’s field featuring Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan.
Triple H also explained how the Rumble’s staggered entry format keeps viewers engaged with constant twists and returns, making it an event that often draws in casual and lapsed fans.
The Royal Rumble takes place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and will air in North America at a special start time of 2 p.m. ET on Saturday.
