Jim Ross Says AJ Styles’ WWE Exit Felt Flat

AJ Styles’ career-threatening loss to Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble was positioned as a major moment, but for many fans, the aftermath didn’t feel like a true farewell. That reaction wasn’t limited to viewers at home. Jim Ross openly questioned the execution of the moment and why one of the most respected performers of his generation didn’t receive a larger sendoff.

Speaking on Grilling JR, Ross addressed the match itself and the way it ended, noting that the presentation didn’t match the gravity of what could potentially be Styles’ final WWE appearance.

“I was a little underwhelmed after the match with Gunther and AJ. I was a little underwhelmed. I thought it should have been a bigger dog and pony show. That’s just me.”

Ross quickly pointed to the location as a major factor, explaining that Saudi Arabia may not have been the right place to close the book on Styles’ WWE run.

“It absolutely was, in my opinion. The location, the geography had something to do with that.”

The lack of legends appearing, the subdued atmosphere, and the absence of a clear goodbye stood out even more when compared to recent WWE farewells for names like John Cena and Goldberg. Ross acknowledged that difference and admitted the situation left him confused rather than emotional.

“I still am of the impression… I don’t know what’s going on. I say that not out of animosity or anger or frustration. I don’t need to know. I just need to be motivated to turn the TV on and watch how this whole thing progresses.”

As speculation continues about what Styles does next, Ross made it clear that any appearances outside WWE would likely only happen if AJ is completely finished with the company. He doubled down on that idea while discussing WWE’s business priorities under TKO.

“It won’t be AEW, I don’t think, and maintain his residency with WWE. I don’t think WWE would let him work in somebody else’s ring.”

“I don’t imagine that TKO is feeling like they want to just donate to other people’s promotions.”

Despite the uncertainty, Ross was unwavering when it came to Styles’ reputation and value to the industry. Ross also suggested that, at this stage of his career, Styles has earned the right to control his own schedule and legacy.

“He’s beloved. He makes any card that you put him on better.”

“If I were him, I’d take my spots and work only when I wanted to and where I wanted to, with who I wanted to. He’s earned that.”

That led into discussion of a potential farewell tour, an idea Conrad clearly embraced as a fan of the business.

“I’d love to see AJ in Arena Mexico, do a big show there. I’d love to see him do another Wrestle Kingdom. I think it would be really cool if we got to see him at Wembley Stadium for AEW, like do one big farewell tour like that. That would be really really cool.”

Ross ultimately summed up his feelings by circling back to the Royal Rumble moment itself, reiterating that it didn’t land the way it should have.

“He had a lackluster, in my opinion, exit.”

AJ Styles’ future remains unclear, but the reaction from Jim Ross reflects a broader feeling among fans who expected more for a performer whose influence spans WWE, TNA, Ring of Honor, and New Japan. Whether this was truly the end or just an awkward chapter before a more fitting goodbye remains to be seen.

Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.