3 Reasons why AJ Styles is facing Shinsuke Nakamura at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event

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WWE is promoting the Styles vs Nakamura SNME match as the showdown between these two stars. The veteran stars have a history, especially due to their time in NJPW. So, one of the crucial reasons that Styles faces Nakamura at SNME could be to retire AJ at the Saudi Arabia show.

This match at Saturday Night’s Main Event will serve as a tribute to their iconic chemistry in the squared circle. Gunther has already retired Goldberg and John Cena, and Styles appears to be next in line after losing at the Royal Rumble 2026.

#2. A start of AJ Styles’ WWE retirement tour?

Before facing Gunther in his final match, John Cena competed for the entire year as part of his retirement tour. As of writing, there is no such announcement for AJ Styles. However, his match against Nakamura could be the start of it.

If Styles defeated Gunther at Royal Rumble 2026, he is expected to retire by the end of this year. By facing the King of Strong Style, AJ could be revisiting his iconic feud, much like Cena did on his retirement tour.

#1. To give Styles momentum ahead of Royal Rumble 2026

Gunther is already riding a winning streak. The Ring General defeated major names during the Last Time is Now tournament. He eventually retired Cena in December last year and defeated Styles on Monday Night RAW.

With this, it’s evident that he has all the momentum on his side, ahead of Royal Rumble 2026. So, to give Styles a boost before facing the Ring General, WWE strategically booked this match for Saturday Night’s Main Event.

By defeating the King of Strong Style at the SNME show, WWE can give the momentum to the Phenomenal One, too.

It will be interesting to see what will happen when both stars collide for the final time in the squared circle.

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