AJ Styles may not be finished in the ring despite losing a career-threatening match at the Royal Rumble on January 31.
AJ Styles was defeated by Gunther, a result that was billed as the end of his run in WWE. However, speculation about his future grew after he did not remove his gloves in the ring, a gesture traditionally associated with retirement.
According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, several people within WWE do not believe Styles has wrestled his final match. While there is no word on when or where he could return, the internal belief is that he will compete again in some capacity.
What Did AJ Styles Say About A Potential In-Ring Comeback?
AJ Styles also addressed the situation during an appearance on “What’s Your Story?” with Stephanie McMahon, where he declined to rule out a comeback.
“I don’t know. I don’t know. Never say never, right? That’s the saying,” Styles said. “I think everybody’s allowed at least once to come out of retirement. I’m not saying that I’ll do it anytime soon.”
He also revealed a personal reason that could bring him back.
“What if my son wrestles? The opportunity to tag with him once, you never know,” Styles said. “So, there’ll be a time when the gloves never go back on. It may be now, but we’ll see.”
If Styles chooses to continue wrestling in 2026, reports suggest there could be interest from companies such as AEW, NJPW, and TNA.
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