AJ Styles’ WWE career concludes after a decisive loss to Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble, prompting heartfelt tributes from peers, including a viral message from John Cena.
The Final Match at Royal Rumble
Styles announced his retirement plans late last year, setting his final bout for 2026. The event unfolded earlier than anticipated during the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Styles faced Gunther with his career at stake. Gunther secured victory via technical submission using his signature sleeper hold, a move that previously ended the careers of Cena and WCW icon Goldberg in 2025.
After the match, Styles absorbed the crowd’s applause in the ring’s center, mirroring Cena’s post-match gesture following his own defeat to Gunther. Unlike Cena, who left his gloves behind, Styles retained his, sparking brief speculation about a potential reversal. Recent developments confirm his decision stands firm.
John Cena’s Viral Tribute
Cena, a longtime rival of Styles, shared a poignant tweet that quickly gained widespread attention. The two delivered iconic matches, including their last encounter at Crown Jewel 2025 during Cena’s retirement tour, where Cena emerged victorious in his final WWE premium live event win. Cena even prepared a custom ring introduction for Styles, read by announcer Alicia Taylor.
In his tribute, Cena stated: “Phenomenal is an understatement.” He added, “Respect is earned and few are more worthy of universal industry-wide respect than @AJStylesOrg. Thank you AJ for all you’ve done for wrestling. From anyone who’s seen you and those lucky enough to share canvas with you.”
AJ Styles’ Storied WWE Legacy
Styles left TNA Wrestling as a legend in 2014, achieved success in Japan, and joined WWE at the 2016 Royal Rumble. Over his decade with the promotion, the Atlanta native became a Grand Slam Champion and cemented his status as a future Hall of Famer.
WWE Confirms Styles’ Retirement
Post-match comments from Styles raised some doubts, but WWE post-show analyst Peter Rosenberg clarified the situation. Rosenberg, who spoke directly with Styles, affirmed: “It is very much the end. This is it for AJ Styles. He is not the kind of guy who goes back on his word when he says he’s having a match with his career on the line.”
