At WWE Royal Rumble 2026, AJ Styles is set to risk his professional wrestling career in a highly anticipated match against Gunther. With Styles already announcing his intent to retire in 2026 and reports indicating his contract will expire in February, it appears likely that Gunther will emerge victorious, bringing an end to the journey of this “phenomenal” icon.
Once Styles steps away from the ring, Gunther’s future in WWE could take several intriguing paths, making the upcoming months especially compelling. Below are seven potential directions for Gunther’s WWE career following AJ Styles’ retirement.
7. Rey Mysterio Retirement
The year 2025 established a new role for Gunther in WWE—as a “career ender.” After putting an end to the careers of legends like Mr. Goldberg and John Cena, Gunther has proven himself willing to retire some of wrestling’s biggest names. This could set the stage for a confrontation with WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio, as Gunther, known as “The Ring General,” has expressed frustration over veteran wrestlers seeking one last hurrah.
At 51 and battling numerous injuries, Mysterio’s remaining time in the ring seems limited, making a potential clash with Gunther not only dramatic but possibly the final chapter in Mysterio’s storied career.
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Fan Take: This storyline is pivotal for WWE fans because it signals a major shift in the company’s landscape, with Gunther potentially becoming the new dominant force. It also marks an emotional passing of the torch, highlighting the evolving nature of sports entertainment and reigniting excitement about future rivalries.
