News regarding the future of AJ Styles in WWE following his loss to Gunther at the Royal Rumble

As seen during the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble PLE, AJ Styles lost to Gunther in a career-threatening match. It was previously reported that Styles’ WWE contract was set to expire after the Rumble.

According to PWInsider.com, Styles and WWE had talks about a new contract, but as the Rumble approached and nothing was finalized, the decision was made to move forward with the Gunther match. The two sides are still in discussions regarding his future with the company, though there has been no word of a new deal being completed.

If Styles’ current contract expires, he would be free to explore other opportunities. However, there have been no indications that he is looking to return to the ring in the immediate future.