AJ Styles Announces Retirement, Enters WWE Hall of Fame, and Moves to Backstage Role

Professional wrestler AJ Styles has announced his retirement from active in-ring competition, a decision officially made during a recent Monday Night Raw broadcast in Atlanta, Georgia. This significant announcement coincided with his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Reports further indicate that Styles has signed a new contract with WWE to assume a talent development position backstage.

AJ Styles has retired from active in-ring competition, will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026, and has signed a new contract to move into a talent development role backstage.

Retirement Announcement and Emotional Tribute

AJ Styles officially announced his retirement from professional wrestling during a Monday Night Raw episode held in Atlanta, Georgia, his home state. During a special tribute segment, Styles performed a symbolic gesture by removing his wrestling gloves and leaving them in the ring. He explained that he had chosen this specific moment to perform the gesture at home, clarifying why he had not left his gloves in the ring at a prior event.

WWE had previously signaled its intention to honor Styles, stating, "Monday Night Raw next week in the state of Georgia, the home state of one AJ Styles, we will pay tribute to one of the all-time greats of the wrestling ring."

Recent In-Ring Appearances and Prior Speculation

Styles' retirement follows his participation in a match against GUNTHER at the Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia, which was described by some sources as a career-threatening contest. Following his loss in this match, Styles initially left his gloves in the ring but later retrieved them, stating at the time that he realized he could potentially wrestle another match.

On January 24, 2026, Styles also competed against Shinsuke Nakamura at the Saturday Night's Main Event special in Montreal, securing a victory.

Prior to his official retirement announcement, Styles had openly expressed an intention to retire by the end of 2026. His future in professional wrestling had been the subject of considerable speculation, with reports indicating that Styles was in discussions with WWE regarding his future.

WWE Hall of Fame Induction Class of 2026

During the Raw tribute in Atlanta, The Undertaker made an appearance to announce that AJ Styles would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as a member of the 2026 class. This prestigious honor was revealed during the emotional segment. It has also been announced that Stephanie McMahon will be a 2026 inductee, joining Styles in the esteemed class.

Transition to Talent Development Role

According to reports from PW Insider, AJ Styles and WWE have reached an agreement on a new contract. Under this new deal, Styles is expected to transition into a behind-the-scenes capacity, specifically focusing on talent development. This new role aligns with Styles' previously stated interest in working with WWE to mentor young talent, ensuring his experience and knowledge benefit future generations of wrestlers.