Andrew Ravens
AJ Styles has officially secured his future with WWE by signing a new contract that transitions him into a backstage role in talent development.
Following his retirement after a loss to Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble, speculation had been rampant regarding whether “The Phenomenal One” would explore free agency or potentially join AEW. However, PWInsider reports that multiple sources within the company have confirmed that Styles and WWE have agreed to a new multi-year deal focused on talent development.
The new agreement effectively ends any rumors of Styles continuing his in-ring career elsewhere. Instead of testing the open market, the two-time WWE Champion is moving into a role overseeing the development of upcoming talent, likely at the WWE Performance Center.
This move aligns with comments Styles made during his retirement tour, where he stated he wanted to “beat the house” and transition into a mentor figure while he was still mentally and physically sharp.
The contract news follows an emotional tribute to Styles on the February 23 edition of Monday Night Raw in his home state of Georgia. During that broadcast, The Undertaker made a surprise appearance to officially announce Styles as the second inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
Styles joins Stephanie McMahon for the ceremony, which is set to take place in Las Vegas during WrestleMania 42 week. Mike Johnson of PWInsider reported that the decision on whether to keep Styles was a priority for Triple H and Nick Khan, who view Styles’ experience across TNA, NJPW, and WWE as a great asset to the current youth movement in NXT.
While AEW reportedly would have been willing to make a significant offer to bring Styles back to the ring, the veteran has chosen the stability of a backstage role that allows him more time with his family in Georgia.
