AJ Styles may be done as a full-time in-ring performer—but that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s finished with wrestling altogether.
While Fightful Select previously reported that Styles’ WWE in-ring career had officially wrapped after the Royal Rumble, a new update via WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select now suggests Styles could still have something left in the tank.
“AJ Styles is done as an active wrestler, but might not be done completely,” the update stated.
According to the report, neither WWE nor AEW sources appear to know what Styles’ next move will be. There’s been increased speculation behind the scenes, but no concrete direction has emerged. Despite Styles’ quiet exit from the ring, internal sources in WWE reportedly believe he’s not finished competing in some capacity.
“Sources that they spoke to within WWE believe that AJ Styles is not done wrestling in some capacity,” per WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select.
Adding more intrigue is a comment Styles made on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, where he kept the door open with a carefully worded response:
“Never say never.”
This only fuels existing rumors that have circulated since before his retirement was even official. It was was noted that Styles was a hot topic backstage at AEW Dynamite on January 28, and while no offer had been made as of February 3, sources within AEW expect the company to pursue him if given the chance.
Meanwhile, New Japan Pro Wrestling is reportedly eyeing Styles as well—especially in light of recent talent departures.
With close ties across AEW and NJPW, and the respect of WWE’s top brass, Styles is in the rare position of holding all the cards. He’s financially secure, creatively fulfilled, and, according to those closest to him, will “do what he wants to do regardless of money.”