AJ Styles is finding his footing in a new WWE role since retiring, but reports about how much he’s running backstage may have been overstated.
Styles retired after facing GUNTHER at the 2026 Royal Rumble. Since then, fans have wondered what comes next for him, with rumors of a coaching role and a bigger position in NXT.
Fightful Select reported that a source at the WWE Performance Center cleared up part of that. Styles is described as a regular and positive presence there, and his involvement goes beyond the occasional visit.
But the rumors that he has been running the Performance Center were denied. The report said he did recently step in to finish a class, which may have fueled the speculation.
It has also been reported that Styles is expected to gain more influence in WWE’s scouting department. In addition, Bobby Roode has been considered for a role similar to those held by Bruce Prichard or Michael Hayes.
AJ Styles is expected to gain more influence in WWE scouting, while Bobby Roode has been considered for a role similar to those held by Bruce Prichard or Michael Hayes.
