WWE Honors AJ Styles with Retirement Tribute in Atlanta
ATLANTA, February 23, 2026 – World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is set to host a special tribute ceremony tonight at the State Farm Arena to honor the legendary career of AJ Styles. The event follows the “Phenomenal One’s” shocking retirement last month at the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he lost a career-threatening match to Gunther.
Farewell to a Phenomenal Career
Tonight’s episode of Monday Night Raw is dedicated to celebrating the 27-year career of Allen Neal Jones, known globally as AJ Styles. The tribute comes exactly 23 days after Styles was forced into retirement by Gunther, who secured the victory via a sleeper hold at the 2026 Royal Rumble. Reports indicate that several former colleagues and released WWE stars have returned to Atlanta specifically to participate in the ceremony.
The Royal Rumble Fallout
While Styles had originally expressed interest in wrestling until WrestleMania 42, a sudden creative shift led to the high-stakes retirement match in January. Despite the finality of the match, rumors have persisted regarding Styles’ future. Speculation has intensified following comments from AEW star Swerve Strickland, who suggested that All Elite Wrestling would be “open and waiting” should Styles choose to continue his career outside of WWE. However, tonight’s appearance is being billed as his official farewell to the WWE Universe.
Impact on the Locker Room
The wrestling community has spent the last week reflecting on Styles’ influence. Recent backstage reports highlighted his mentorship, including advice given to Jacob Fatu during the January 24 Saturday Night’s Main Event. Tonight’s tribute is expected to feature appearances by various legends, with names like Brock Lesnar also confirmed to return to the program during this emotional broadcast.
Key Facts
| Real Name | Allen Neal Jones |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 2, 1977 |
| Birthplace | Camp Lejeune, North Carolina |
| Billed From | Gainesville, Georgia |
| Billed Height | 5-foot-11 |
| Billed Weight | 220 pounds |
| Signature Moves | Phenomenal Forearm, Styles Clash, Calf Crusher |
| Major Accolades | WWE Triple Crown Champion, 2-time WWE Champion, 9-time World Champion (Global) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AJ Styles officially retired?
As of February 2026, AJ Styles is officially retired from WWE in-ring competition following his loss to Gunther at the Royal Rumble in Riyadh. Tonight’s Raw serves as his formal retirement ceremony.
Will AJ Styles join AEW?
While Swerve Strickland and other AEW figures have expressed interest in Styles joining their roster, there has been no official confirmation of Styles signing with any other promotion. He remains under a WWE retirement protocol as of this date.
Where is tonight’s AJ Styles tribute being held?
The tribute is taking place at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, during the February 23, 2026, episode of Monday Night Raw.
Who ended AJ Styles’ career?
Gunther ended AJ Styles’ career in a “Career vs. Championship” (or career-threatening) match at the Royal Rumble on January 31, 2026.