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AJ Styles Reportedly Aware of AEW's Substantial Offer
WWE Hall of Fame induction may have limited potential AEW appearance
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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According to reports, former WWE Superstar AJ Styles was 'well aware' that AEW was willing to make him a 'substantial offer' if he chose to wrestle outside of WWE. However, Styles' upcoming WWE Hall of Fame induction is said to have severely limited any potential surprise appearance for AEW.
Why it matters
This report provides insight into the behind-the-scenes negotiations and considerations that top wrestlers face when deciding their futures, especially when high-profile organizations like WWE and AEW are involved. It also highlights the strategic timing of major announcements like Hall of Fame inductions.
The details
Journalist Justin Barrasso spoke with sources close to AJ Styles and learned that Styles was aware of AEW's willingness to make him a lucrative offer to join the company. However, Styles ultimately decided to retire from in-ring competition after losing to Gunther at the Royal Rumble. WWE then announced Styles' induction into the Hall of Fame, which is said to have limited any potential for a surprise AEW appearance around their upcoming Revolution pay-per-view.
- AJ Styles retired from in-ring competition after his loss to Gunther at the Royal Rumble on January 31, 2026.
- WWE held a tribute to Styles during Raw in Atlanta on February 25, 2026, where The Undertaker announced Styles as the next inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame.
The players
AJ Styles
A former WWE Superstar who is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Tony Khan
The head of AEW, who was reportedly willing to make Styles a substantial offer to join the company.
Gunther
The wrestler who defeated Styles in his final match before retirement.
The Undertaker
The WWE legend who announced Styles' Hall of Fame induction.
Justin Barrasso
The journalist who spoke with sources close to Styles and reported on the details.
What they’re saying
“For as much as WWE claims to be blissfully unaware of what is happening in AEW, that isn't the case. With Styles getting inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, it severely limits any potential AEW owner Tony Khan had of bringing Styles in for a surprise appearance at the Revolution pay-per-view in March.”
— Justin Barrasso, Journalist (Undisputed)
“Speaking to a few people close to him, Styles was well aware that AEW was willing to make a substantial offer. And it was likely going to be one that wouldn't cost him much time away from home.”
— Justin Barrasso, Journalist (Undisputed)
What’s next
AJ Styles is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, which will likely prevent any potential surprise appearance for AEW in the near future.
The takeaway
This report highlights the complex negotiations and strategic considerations top wrestlers face when deciding their futures, especially when high-profile organizations like WWE and AEW are involved. It also underscores the importance of timing for major announcements like Hall of Fame inductions, which can impact a wrestler's options and opportunities.
