AJ Styles’ WWE Career Is Over But His Exit Happened Completely on His Own Terms

AJ Styles’ legendary in‑ring career with WWE is officially finished—and according to new reporting, the ending unfolded exactly the way he wanted it to.

Following Styles’ final match at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Riyadh, where he passed out in a sleeper hold against GUNTHER, questions immediately surfaced about whether his WWE run was truly over or if something else was coming. Fightful Select now reports that, as of early February, Styles’ WWE career has indeed reached its conclusion.

A number of months ago, it was reported that the belief at the time was that Styles’ WWE contract was set to expire sometime in February 2026. While that specific timing hasn’t been independently confirmed, there has been no indication of an extension being finalized.

One WWE source familiar with the situation emphasized that regardless of what happens next, Styles dictated every aspect of his retirement.

“One WWE source familiar with the situation says that regardless of what happens with his future, AJ Styles has very much had it his way as it relates to his WWE retirement.”

Another source from WWE management echoed that sentiment, noting that the door was open if Styles wanted it—but he’s been preparing for this moment for years.

“Another source in management said that they would happily extend AJ Styles, but that he has made it very clear for years that he was eyeing retirement.”

That aligns with Triple H’s earlier comments confirming that Styles personally told him he was finished with the in‑ring side of wrestling. While WWE sources indicated Styles could have even worked select TNA dates while under contract if he pushed for it, the broader picture is clear: this wasn’t a forced ending.

Styles is still expected to remain connected to WWE in some capacity if he chooses, whether behind the scenes or in a mentoring role. But his days as an active WWE performer are done—and by all accounts, that was entirely his call.

With his WWE chapter closed, the question now becomes what—if anything—comes next for one of the most influential performers of his generation. Was Royal Rumble truly the final bell, or is there one more surprise chapter waiting to be written?