AJ Styles Visits WWE Performance Center Following Royal Rumble Retirement

Following his career-ending match against Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble, AJ Styles made an appearance at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, according to Fightful. The visit has sparked speculation about the future of the wrestling veteran, despite his match stipulation.

Uncertainty Surrounds Styles’ Future

Styles’ match against Gunther at the Royal Rumble on January 31st was a career-threatening bout. A loss would force Styles to retire from WWE. Gunther emerged victorious, seemingly ending Styles’ in-ring career. Although, the moments following the match left the door open for a potential return. Styles initially appeared to leave his gloves in the ring – a symbolic gesture of retirement – but ultimately place them back on after objections from the crowd, CBS Sports reported.

WWE to Honor AJ Styles on Raw

WWE is planning a tribute to AJ Styles’ career on the February 23rd edition of Raw, Fightful confirmed. This suggests the company intends to acknowledge Styles’ contributions despite the ambiguous ending to his Royal Rumble match.

Potential for Continued Career

The visit to the Performance Center, coupled with his actions after the match, has led to speculation that Styles may not be entirely finished with professional wrestling. As Wrestling-World.com notes, Styles’ WWE contract status could allow him to potentially wrestle for other promotions, such as TNA, or even remain with WWE in a different capacity.

Gunther’s Rising Status

Gunther’s victory over Styles adds to his growing reputation as a “legend killer,” having previously secured retirement matches against Goldberg and John Cena within the past six months, according to CBS Sports.