CM Punk and AJ Styles shared a touching moment in the ring following what may have been their last match together on the January 26 episode of WWE Raw. AJ Styles, who will risk his career in an upcoming match against Gunther at the WWE Royal Rumble 2026 premium live event, faced off with Punk in the main event at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena.
The two wrestling icons battled in WWE’s first-ever singles match between them, competing for Punk’s World Heavyweight Title. However, the match concluded with Punk winning by disqualification after Finn Balor interfered. Despite the unresolved finish, the crowd witnessed a heartfelt exchange between the two stars once the cameras stopped rolling.
Styles expressed his gratitude to Punk and the audience in a fan-recorded video shared on Twitter, saying, “I’m so grateful that you and I were in this ring tonight. I just want to say thank you so much to you and everyone else. I love you brother.” Punk then took the microphone, calling it a “privilege” to call Styles his friend and shared his admiration, emphasizing the honor it was to share the ring with him. He also acknowledged the fans who braved challenging weather to attend the event.
Punk admitted uncertainty about the outcome of Styles’ scheduled match against Gunther in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, but affirmed he would be watching closely. He concluded with a heartfelt message, “I hope it’s not Saturday, but if it is, what a career. I love you brother, thank you.”
Aside from Styles vs. Gunther and the men’s and women’s Royal Rumble matches, the card for the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble also features Drew McIntyre defending his Undisputed WWE Championship against Sami Zayn. No additional matches have been announced yet.
Fan Take: This emotional moment between two of WWE’s top veterans highlights the depth of respect and camaraderie in the sport, offering fans a rare glimpse beyond the scripted rivalries. It also sets the stage for what could be a pivotal and memorable night at the Royal Rumble, potentially marking the end of an era for AJ Styles.
