3 Things AJ Styles must do on the final episode of WWE RAW before the 2026 Royal Rumble

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If tonight is truly Styles’ final WWE RAW, here are three things he must do to set the stage for the biggest gamble of his life.

#3. Could confront Gunther

Gunther has spent the last year being a “career killer,” having already retired Goldberg and John Cena. He appears to be a bully who thrives on the fear of his opponents.

AJ Styles needs a face-to-face segment where he doesn’t just cut a promo, but shows Gunther that while his body might be 48, his spirit hasn’t aged a day. The slap he gave Gunther on the January 5 episode of WWE RAW? Fans might need that same fire tonight.

#2. Could acknowledge the “Phenomenal” legacy

This isn’t just about a match; it’s about a journey that started in 1998 and hit its peak when AJ Styles stepped through the curtain at the 2016 WWE Royal Rumble. Tonight, Styles needs a moment to address fans.

Whether it’s a backstage interview or an in-ring speech, The Phenomenal One needs to remind the WWE Universe why he’s The Face that Runs the Place. If this is the end of the road for the veteran on Monday nights, fans need a chance to thank him before the bell rings on Saturday.

#1. Could remind the WWE Universe he already made Gunther tap

The only reason retirement is even on the table is that Gunther cheated his way out of a loss in Germany. Styles shouldn’t even be in this position. He needs to go out there and remind everyone that The Ring General absolutely tapped to the Calf Crusher on the January 12 episode of RAW.

By highlighting The Ring General’s vulnerability, The Phenomenal One could shift the pressure. It’s not just Styles fighting for his career; it’s The Austrian Anomaly fighting to prove he isn’t a fraud.