AJ Styles' Future in AEW: A Major Point of Conversation
The wrestling world was abuzz with speculation about AJ Styles' future as he faced his retirement at the WWE Royal Rumble. While the event marked the end of an era for Styles, behind the scenes, his future became a hot topic in AEW.
Fightful Select reported that Styles' WWE contract was set to expire in February 2026, but no extension had been confirmed. This sparked conversations backstage at AEW's Dynamite, with fans and insiders alike wondering what the future held for the legendary wrestler.
AEW's Interest in Styles
AEW's interest in Styles was not a secret. Fightful Select revealed that the promotion had been actively discussing the possibility of signing him, with sources suggesting that Styles could have worked for TNA Wrestling while still under his WWE contract. However, the validity of this claim remains uncertain.
NJPW's Potential Interest
Adding to the intrigue, NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling) was also reportedly interested in Styles, despite the company already facing talent losses. This multi-promotion pursuit highlighted the high regard in which Styles was held across the industry.
Retirement and WWE's Flexibility
Despite the speculation, WWE sources claimed that Styles had a say in his retirement. While WWE was willing to extend his contract, Styles had made his retirement intentions clear. This dynamic showcased the unique relationship between wrestlers and their promotions.
The Future of AJ Styles
As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, the future of AJ Styles remains uncertain. Will he continue his career in AEW or explore other opportunities? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his impact on the industry will be felt for years to come.
Shounak Chakrabarti, an experienced sports journalist, brings his passion for athletics and storytelling to F4WOnline. With a Master's Degree in International Journalism from the University of Leeds, he covers a range of sports, with a particular interest in soccer and top clubs like Real Madrid and Arsenal. When not reporting on the latest wrestling news, Chakrabarti enjoys fiction writing, photography, gaming, and cinema.
