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AJ Styles Picking Final Opponents Before Retirement

ByMike ReichlinProfessional Wrestling Journalist

AJ Styles is taking control of his final WWE run, personally choosing opponents before his planned 2026 retirement.

Triple H revealed on ESPN’s Unsportsmanlike podcast that Styles meets with him weekly to build a list of dream matches. One confirmed bout sees Styles putting his career on the line against Gunther at the 2026 Royal Rumble.

\”He has a lot of goals and a lot of people — I know he’s with me every week making a list of people that he would want to face and that he wants to meet in the ring before he retires,\” Triple H said.

Styles\’ decision to face Gunther stems from the Ring General\’s recent disrespect toward John Cena. The high-stakes showdown adds massive intrigue to Styles\’ farewell tour.

With his career at stake, Styles aims to check off key goals in his final year. WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H emphasized Styles\’ hands-on approach to curating these matches.

Triple H on what to expect at Royal Rumble: 'This one is STACKED!' | Get Up
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