Steve Carrier on February 18, 2026
AJ Styles’ upcoming appearance on WWE RAW just got even bigger.
The February 23 episode of RAW will take place in Atlanta, a city deeply connected to Styles’ career. The former WWE Champion was “retired” by GUNTHER at the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia, but he is now advertised to appear next week — and it looks like WWE is going all out for the occasion.
Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline reported that additional stars are being brought in specifically for the segment.
“Smackdown talent being flown to RAW this week for the AJ celebration.”
That development signals this won’t be a simple in-ring promo or quick cameo. Instead, WWE appears to be preparing a major tribute-style celebration for Styles in Atlanta.
The city holds special significance in pro wrestling history and for Styles personally, given his roots in the Georgia wrestling scene. With SmackDown talent reportedly traveling in for the event, it suggests WWE wants this moment to feel substantial — possibly even emotional — as Styles’ Hall of Fame-worthy career is acknowledged.
Styles was forced into retirement storyline-wise by GUNTHER at the Royal Rumble, making next week’s RAW his first on-screen appearance since that loss. With cross-brand talent involved and Atlanta as the backdrop, WWE is clearly positioning this as more than just another segment.
Who do you think WWE is bringing in for AJ Styles’ celebration — and could this lead to one more twist before he truly rides off into the sunset? Sound off in the comments and let us know your thoughts.
3 hours ago
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