WWE made a surprise announcement on the February 16 episode of RAW that left fans buzzing. It has everything to do with one of the most decorated Superstars of the modern era, AJ Styles.
Just before the Elimination Chamber qualifying Triple Threat between Dominik Mysterio, GUNTHER, and Je’Von Evans — which Evans won with an OG Cutter on Mysterio — a hype reel aired with a major reveal.
Next week’s RAW in Atlanta will be dedicated as a tribute to AJ Styles.
The news came without much detail, adding intrigue to an already loaded show. Commentary confirmed the February 23 episode, taking place in Styles’ home state of Georgia, will honor “one of the all-time greats of the wrestling ring.”
Tribute Set For AJ Styles On Upcoming Episode Of RAW
Styles officially retired from in-ring competition on January 31, 2026, after passing out to GUNTHER in a career-ending match at the Royal Rumble. Although he left his gloves in the ring, he briefly put them back on before exiting. This became a subtle moment that fueled speculation about whether this is truly goodbye.
His WWE contract reportedly expires in February 2026. Discussions about a potential future role with the company are said to be ongoing.
For now, however, the focus is on celebrating a ten-year WWE run that saw Styles capture the WWE Championship twice, become a Grand Slam Champion, and main event WrestleMania 36 in the Boneyard Match against The Undertaker.
Atlanta holds special significance in pro wrestling history — and for Styles, his home turf. Whether this tribute marks a full stop or just a comma in his career remains to be seen.
With Elimination Chamber around the corner and WrestleMania 42 looming, RAW is stacking the card. But next week, the spotlight belongs to The Phenomenal One — and that’s not just a nickname, that’s a resume.
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