AJ Styles’ WWE in-ring career officially came to a close at the Royal Rumble following a loss to Gunther in a “Career vs. Title” match. While WWE CCO Triple H has stated that Styles is done in the ring, the wrestler himself offered a cryptic tease by putting his gloves back on after initially appearing to leave them in the ring.
Fightful Select reports that Styles’ future was a major topic of conversation backstage at AEW Dynamite. It is “universally expected” within AEW that the company would attempt to sign him if he decides to wrestle again. Additionally, New Japan Pro-Wrestling is expected to have significant interest, given Styles’ history as a two-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and the recent exodus of top talent from their roster.
While Styles has previously mentioned a desire for a final match in TNA, sources indicate he could have likely fulfilled that wish while under WWE contract if he pushed for it. For now, those close to him say they are unsure of his next move.