A WWE legend just seemingly spoiled a major moment that will take place at this weekend’s Royal Rumble, and long-time fans are sure to hate it.
Last night, WWE delivered its latest premium live event, Saturday Night’s Main Event. While the card was very entertaining and featured several really good matches, it is in the shadow of an even bigger show to come this weekend. And that is the 2026 edition of the Royal Rumble.
After WrestleMania, the Royal Rumble is, arguably, the second most anticipated event of the year for many fans. The men’s and women’s Royal Rumble matches usually offer big surprises, and they officially start the build for the major matches at WrestleMania. But other key bouts also go down at the event.
This year is no different. On Saturday, WWE undisputed champion Drew McIntyre will defend his belt against Sami Zayn, who earned his opportunity in the main event of SNME. Another much-anticipated clash is AJ Styles putting his career on the line in a grudge match with Gunther.
AJ Styles plans to retire this weekend at the Royal Rumble?
Most feel Styles will score the victory because 2026 is supposed to be his last year in the industry. With WrestleMania 42 just a few months away, it would seem fitting for him to retire at that event, instead of in the first month of his final year as an active wrestler. Well, maybe not.
Following his bout with Styles at SNME, Shinsuke Nakamura posted a heartfelt message about “The Phenomenal One” on his social media. In it, he seemingly confirmed that Styles will bring his career to a close this Saturday. Giving Gunther another legend to retire after defeating Goldberg and John Cena in their retirement matches.
Could this all be part of the plan to swerve fans? It is very possible. It would be odd for Nakamura to spoil such a major thing a week in advance. Either way, for fans not ready for AJ Styles to end his legendary career so soon, they need to get their tissues and be prepared for the worst this weekend.
This year’s Royal Rumble will take place in Saudi Arabia and have a start time of 2:00 PM ET/11:00 AM PT.
