Bad News AEW Fans: AJ Styles Shuts Down Rumors of Jump to Tony Khan’s Company
· Yahoo Sports
AJ Styles has officially addressed the mounting speculation regarding a potential jump to AEW following his retirement from WWE competition.
The “Phenomenal One” saw his decade-long WWE career conclude at the 2026 Royal Rumble after a loss to Gunther, followed by a Hall of Fame induction announcement on Monday Night Raw.
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Speaking on Talk N Shop Live!, Styles dismissed theories that his induction was a strategic move by WWE to prevent him from signing with AEW. The wrestling community had been abuzz with rumors that Styles might explore free agency once his WWE contract obligations concluded.
However, Styles was firm in stating that his decision to retire was personal, based on his physical condition and his desire to leave the industry on his own terms. At 48 years old, Styles noted that he wanted to “beat the house” by walking away before staying “on the table for too long.”
AJ Styles confirms he’s not head to AEW
Credit: WWE“Let me give you something to talk about. So, everybody wants to say, ‘Oh, WWE put him put him in the Hall of Fame so that he couldn’t go to AEW.’ Guys, I am retired from wrestling in the ring. Like, that’s all this is. I make my own choices, I make my own decisions. I was ready,” Styles clarified.
While his days as an active in-ring performer have come to an end, Styles confirmed that his relationship with WWE is far from over. He revealed plans to transition into a developmental role, where he hopes to mentor and prepare the next generation of superstars for the challenges of the main roster. Styles shared a deep passion for helping young talent gain the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in a WWE ring.
“I am 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,” Styles stated.
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