Earlier this year, after a loss to Gunther at WWE Royal Rumble 2026 in Saudi Arabia, AJ Styles retired from professional wrestling. Shortly after, Styles was inducted into the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame class.

No longer actively wrestling, Styles now works more as a WWE scout, finding talent and occasionally producing WWE NXT matches. While he previously announced his intention to be done with in-ring work, Styles recently returned at Atlanta Wrestling Entertainment to save his son, Avery.

Recently at Atlanta Wrestling Entertainment, Styles made a surprise appearance and saved his son, Avery Styles, from a post-match attack. Styles attempted a Styles Clash, but was obstructed in his attempt. Despite the independent wrestling appearance, Styles' 19-year-old son, Avery, is currently signed to TNA, where he is currently scheduled to appear at TNA Bound for Glory 2026.

AJ Styles made a surprise appearance tonight at Atlanta Wrestling Entertainment saving Avery Styles from a post-match beatdown!

(📹 @nocommentnumb)
(📹 wrestlelitlive on IG) pic.twitter.com/jTV26aJsE5

— 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐕𝐞𝐧 (@WrestlingCovers) October 5, 2026

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WWE's AJ Styles opens up about his wrestling future

A few months ago, while speaking on The AJ Styles Show, the WWE Hall of Famer opened up about his in-ring return chances and conditions.

“How long is it going to take my son, or sons, to get into a position where I’m able to do the show with them that matters? If it doesn’t matter…I’ll be honest with you, I’m probably not going to come back for an indie show, even if it’s to wrestle my boys. I’m probably not doing that. I don’t mind being a special guest like a manager, but if I do come back, hopefully I’m not 60 and it’s on a big show. What father wouldn’t want to come back and tag with his sons? I don’t know if that opportunity will come because it depends on how long it’s going to take,” Styles said.