AJ Styles Secures Trademark Renewal Amid Retirement Speculation
AJ Styles, a prominent figure in professional wrestling, may face a pivotal moment in his career this Saturday at the WWE Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The stakes are high for Styles, who is set to battle Gunther. If Styles cannot secure a victory, he will be forced to retire from WWE.
WWE Royal Rumble Implications
This weekend’s Royal Rumble is not just another match for Styles; it could mark the end of his illustrious WWE career. Previously, Styles faced off against Shinsuke Nakamura at Saturday Night’s Main Event, continuing their long-standing rivalry. Following that, he participated in a high-profile championship match against CM Punk during WWE Raw, which ended in a no-contest due to an unexpected attack from Finn Balor.
Career Speculation
AJ Styles has hinted that 2026 would be his final year in wrestling. However, the potential for an early retirement looms large, especially if he does not defeat Gunther. This scenario raises questions about his future in wrestling, particularly outside WWE.
Trademark Renewals Spark Interest
Amidst these retirement speculations, AJ Styles has taken proactive steps by renewing two trademarks: “The Phenomenal One AJ Styles” and his P1 logo. This move has led to conjecture about his interest in continuing his wrestling career beyond WWE. Styles, known as “The Phenomenal” since 2001, could be positioning himself for opportunities elsewhere.
Future Possibilities
- AEW: AJ Styles has been linked to All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he nearly signed years ago.
- New Japan Pro Wrestling: Styles has an impressive history with New Japan, where he faced legends like Nakamura and Kazuchika Okada.
Returning to New Japan in 2026 would align with his planned retirement, making it a compelling option for the latter part of his career.
WWE Royal Rumble Match Card
The Royal Rumble promises an exciting lineup of matches. Alongside Styles versus Gunther, the event features:
- Sami Zayn vs. Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship
- The men’s and women’s Royal Rumble matches
The winners of the Royal Rumble matches will earn world championship opportunities at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.
As AJ Styles prepares for potentially his last WWE match, fans and analysts alike are watching closely. Whether he secures victory or faces retirement, his legacy in the wrestling world continues to unfold.
