Archive · 1 Feb 2026
AJ Styles Retires After Royal Rumble 2026
AJ Styles, a legendary wrestler, had a very important match at the WWE Royal Rumble 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
He was up against Gunther, who is known for making other wrestlers retire.
The match was very intense, and in the end, Gunther won by making AJ Styles pass out.
Because of the match rules, AJ Styles had to retire.
Fans around the world were very sad and shared many kind words about AJ Styles' amazing career.
It was a very emotional moment for everyone.
AJ Styles was forced to retire after losing to Gunther in a career-threatening match at WWE Royal Rumble 2026.
The event took place on January 31, 2026, at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Gunther insisted on a stipulation where Styles would retire if he lost, adding high stakes to the match.
The 24-minute bout was intense, with both wrestlers showcasing their skills and enduring physical strain.
Fans worldwide reacted with heartfelt tributes, celebrating AJ Styles' legendary career and unforgettable matches.
- Who
- AJ Styles and Gunther
- What
- A career-threatening match at WWE Royal Rumble 2026 where AJ Styles was forced to retire after losing to Gunther
- When
- January 31, 2026
- Where
- King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Why
- Gunther insisted on a stipulation match where Styles would retire if he lost, leading to an emotional and high-stakes bout
AJ Styles
Gunther
Match Stakes
AJ Styles
AJ Styles wanted to retire on his own terms after announcing 2026 as his final year.
Gunther
Gunther, known as the 'Career Killer,' insisted on a stipulation where Styles would retire if he lost.
- Event Date
- January 31, 2026
- Location
- King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Match Duration
- 24 minutes
- Winning Move
- Sleeper Hold Submission
- AJ Styles' Career Highlights
- Multiple world championships, WrestleMania main events, and unforgettable matches across promotions
- Gunther's Previous Victories
- Retired Goldberg and John Cena in 2025
Sources
WWE Royal Rumble 2026 Live streaming: How to watch Royal Rumble live in India on TV, online
WWE Royal Rumble 2026 live streaming: Where to watch in India and US, timings, match cards and key details
AJ Styles retires: WWE legend forced out after Royal Rumble 2026 defeat to Gunther
Roman Reigns Supreme! Morgan 'Liv's Royal Rumble Dream In Riyadh: WWE Royal Rumble 2026 Full Results