Michael Cole says WWE star will be bidding goodbye to wrestling after 28 years

”
], { type: “text/html” }
);
const iframe = document.createElement(“iframe”);
iframe.src = URL.createObjectURL(blob);
iframe.style.cssText = “width:100%;height:100%;border:0;”;
container.appendChild(iframe);
attachIframeMessageListener(iframe);
}
const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, obs) => {
const entry = entries[0];
if (entry.isIntersecting) {
obs.unobserve(entry.target);
requestIdleCallback(() => {
initWidget(entry.target);
}, {
timeout: 200
});
}
}, {
root: null,
rootMargin: “300px 0px”,
threshold: 0.01
});
requestIdleCallback(() => {
$all(“.nl-inline-form-container”).forEach((c) => {
observer.observe(c);
});
});
})();

The Phenomenal One kicked off his potential last year as an active performer by returning to singles competition, thanks to Gunther.

The Ring General has continued to run his mouth since forcing John Cena to tap out at Saturday Night’s Main Event last December. His backstage antics haven’t sat well with the Phenomenal One.

The two even crossed paths for the first time on Monday Night RAW this past week. Much to everyone’s surprise, Gunther tapped out to AJ Styles’ Calf Crusher, but sadly, the referee didn’t see it.

Moments later, the Ring General hit The Phenomenal One with a low blow and nailed him with a powerbomb to pick up a controversial win.

During the match, Michael Cole reiterated AJ Styles’ retirement decision and informed everyone that the RAW star will ride off into the sunset this year.

“Ladies and gentlemen, AJ Styles has made no bones about it. This year, 2026, will be the final year of his in-ring career.”

What’s next for AJ Styles in WWE?

Gunther may have walked away victorious, but things are far from over between him and AJ Styles.

A rematch is certainly on the cards as the Royal Rumble fast approaches. WWE could use the 30-man Battle Royal to further their storyline, leading to a rubber match at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.

It’s been a while since the Phenomenal One has held a World Title. With 2026 being his last year, he could declare himself for the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia this month.

As of this writing, only Cody Rhodes has confirmed that he would be entering the 30-man Battle Royal in hopes of getting a title shot against the new Undisputed WWE Champion, Drew McIntyre.

If you use quotes from the article in your publication, please credit WWE and give an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.