AJ Styles Signs New WWE Deal After In-Ring Retirement

AJ Styles may have stepped away from the ring, but he’s not stepping away from WWE as he just inked a new deal with the company.

After officially retiring following his Royal Rumble loss to GUNTHER and receiving an emotional tribute on the February 23, 2026 episode of RAW — capped off by The Undertaker announcing his WWE Hall of Fame induction — speculation quickly began about what would come next. Reports even suggested AEW would have been willing to make a major offer had he chosen to continue wrestling elsewhere. Now, there’s clarity.

According to PWInsider on February 26, 2026, multiple sources have confirmed that AJ Styles and WWE have officially agreed to a new deal that keeps him with the company. The belief among those spoken to is that Styles will be working behind the scenes, specifically helping with the development of new talent.

This lines up directly with what Styles himself recently said about wanting to mentor the next generation. Instead of exploring outside opportunities or testing free agency, the former WWE Champion is transitioning into a developmental role within the company.

“I’m still going to be working with WWE. That’s not going to change. I have these dreams of helping out young talent. If somebody is not ready once they get there, it’s my job to hopefully help them get to that point to where they can do it and they are confident when they step into a WWE ring. Being able to help with that is a blessing.”

With his Hall of Fame induction set for WrestleMania 42 weekend and a new contract now in place, Styles’ future in WWE appears secure — just in a different capacity. Rather than rumors of an AEW run or another return, the focus now shifts to what impact he could have shaping the next wave of WWE Superstars.

Do you think AJ Styles will thrive in a talent development role, or would you have preferred one more in-ring run? Let us know your thoughts.