AJ Styles Puts Career on the Line Against Gunther at WWE Royal Rumble – AJ Styles is officially nearing the end of his in-ring career, and that moment could arrive as soon as the Royal Rumble. WWE has confirmed that Styles will face Gunther at the Saturday, January 31 premium live event in Saudi Arabia, with Styles agreeing to a career-threatening stipulation. If Styles loses, he will retire.
The stipulation was proposed by Gunther following their encounter in Belfast on 1/19 WWE RAW. Gunther made it clear that he had no interest in another match unless Styles was willing to put his career on the line. Styles ultimately accepted those terms, setting the stage for one of the most significant matches of his career.
The situation stems from the January 12 episode of RAW, which featured Gunther defeating Styles in the main event. The finish was controversial, as Gunther tapped out to the Calf Crusher while the referee was distracted. Believing the match was over, Styles released the hold, allowing Gunther to recover and secure the win with a low blow followed by a powerbomb.
On today’s RAW, the show opened with Styles confronting Gunther in the ring. Styles accused him of being afraid to face him again and challenged his credibility. Gunther responded by stating there was no reason for a rematch, as he had already beaten Styles. He then raised the stakes by suggesting that Styles risk his career if he truly wanted another opportunity. Gunther gave Styles until the end of the night to decide.
After discussing the situation with his wife, Styles returned later in the show with his answer. As he explained, “She said exactly what I was thinking — kick his ass,” officially agreeing to the stipulation.
Gunther enters the match with a reputation for ending legendary careers, having already retired both Goldberg and John Cena. In the ongoing storyline, Styles has taken issue with what he views as Gunther’s disrespectful behavior following his victory over Cena, adding further tension to the feud.
With Styles expected to retire sometime in 2026, this match could mark the final chapter of his WWE career.
AJ Styles Puts Career on the Line Against Gunther at WWE Royal Rumble
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