Where Things Stand with AJ Styles Jumping Ship to AEW Following WWE Retirement

With AJ Styles’ WWE in‑ring career officially over, attention across the wrestling world has immediately shifted to what could come next—and nowhere has the speculation been louder than inside All Elite Wrestling.

Fightful Select reports that Styles’ future was a major topic of conversation backstage at AEW Dynamite on January 28, just days before his retirement became public. While no offer has been confirmed as of February 3, multiple AEW sources reportedly expect the company to pursue Styles if the opportunity presents itself.

“The topic was a major point of conversation backstage in AEW at Dynamite on January 28, with people on the team speculating what he was doing.”

As of now, Fightful notes that AEW sources have not been told an offer has been made—but there is a strong belief internally that if AEW can bring Styles in, they would do so without hesitation.

“As of February 3, we have not been told that an offer is made, but it was universally expected among AEW sources that if AEW is able to, they would bring in Styles.”

Styles’ long‑standing relationships within AEW only add fuel to the speculation. He remains close with several people in the company, and his wrestling roots outside WWE—particularly in Japan—are also resurfacing in discussions.

It was also reported that New Japan Pro Wrestling is expected to have interest as well, especially given their recent talent losses.

“It is expected that New Japan Pro Wrestling would want to use him as well, in the middle of them losing a ton of talent.”

Perhaps the most telling detail comes from a source close to Styles himself, who said they knew Royal Rumble would be the end of his in‑ring career—but admitted they have no idea what he plans to do next.

“One source close to AJ Styles said they knew Styles’ in‑ring career was ending at Royal Rumble, but aren’t sure what he’s doing next… AJ will do what he wants to do regardless of money, and he’s in a position to do so.”

That sentiment may be the most important takeaway of all. Whether AEW, New Japan, a one‑off appearance, or nothing at all, AJ Styles has reached a point where choice—not contracts—will dictate his future.

Do you think AEW should make a serious push to bring AJ Styles in, or should his Royal Rumble match stand as the final chapter of his in‑ring career? Let us know what you think.