AJ Styles Fuels Retirement Speculation with Trademark Filings Ahead of Career-Threatening WWE Match
31 January 2026 – WWE veteran AJ Styles has ignited fresh speculation about his impending retirement after filing trademarks for “Phenomenal AJ Styles” and “P1” this week. The move comes just days before “The Phenomenal One” is scheduled to put his career on the line against Gunther at the WWE Royal Rumble premium live event.
The Stakes at the Royal Rumble
Styles, who announced last year that 2026 would be his final year as an active competitor, faces a definitive crossroads. His match against Intercontinental Champion Gunther at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia carries a stark stipulation: if Styles loses, he must retire from WWE. On a recent episode of SmackDown, Styles declared that his “Phenomenal Farewell Tour” would commence only if he emerges victorious. This high-stakes scenario has led to widespread discussion among fans and industry veterans about whether this Saturday will mark the end of his storied WWE run.
Key Facts & Recent Developments
| Development | Details |
|---|---|
| Trademark Filings | Styles recently filed to trademark “Phenomenal AJ Styles” and “P1,” a move analysts see as securing his brand for post-wrestling ventures. |
| Contract Status | Reports indicate Styles’ current WWE contract extends until February 2026, aligning with his stated retirement timeline. |
| AEW Rumours | Despite speculation, industry reports state there have been no serious talks about Styles joining All Elite Wrestling (AEW). A 2025 report claimed he came close to leaving WWE for AEW before deciding on one final WWE run. |
| Creative Control | WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque has confirmed that Styles is personally selecting his final opponents before retirement. |
| Potential TNA Return | Some analysts have speculated that a loss at the Rumble could pave the way for a brief return to TNA (his former promotion) before a final WWE chapter, though this remains conjecture. |
The Road to Retirement
The filing of these trademarks is viewed as a pragmatic step by Styles to control his intellectual property as he transitions out of full-time wrestling. The “P1” moniker has been a personal brand for the former WWE Champion throughout his career. While the match against Gunther presents a clear retirement trigger, WWE has reportedly planned for Styles’ departure for several months, with the Royal Rumble long considered a potential venue for his final bout. However, backstage sources note that plans remain fluid and could change.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did AJ Styles say he would retire?
AJ Styles announced in 2025 that the 2026 calendar year would be his last as an active professional wrestler.
What happens if AJ Styles loses to Gunther?
Per the stipulated match agreement, a loss to Gunther at the Royal Rumble would force AJ Styles to retire from WWE immediately.
Is AJ Styles going to AEW?
Despite past rumours and a reported close call in 2025, there are currently no serious discussions about AJ Styles joining AEW, according to industry insiders like Dave Meltzer. His focus appears to be on concluding his career in WWE.
What is the “Phenomenal Farewell Tour”?
Styles has announced this as a series of final matches against hand-picked opponents, which will only begin if he defeats Gunther at the Royal Rumble.