The 2026 Royal Rumble event served as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of professional wrestling, as AJ Styles’ career-threatening loss to Gunther left fans and fellow Superstars alike in a state of shock and sadness. In the aftermath of the match, several WWE personalities shared their tributes to the legendary wrestler, with longtime rival and peer Randy Orton offering a candid, heartfelt statement about Styles’ enduring impact on the industry.
A Legacy of Excellence
Randy Orton’s remarks on WWE’s official YouTube channel highlighted the immense respect with which he regards AJ Styles. “AJ’s dedication to his craft is something that I’ve always admired,” Orton said, his voice tinged with emotion. “He’s a true champion in every sense of the word – not just because of his impressive resume, but because of the way he carries himself both in and out of the ring.” Orton continued, “From our early days in WWE’s developmental system to our numerous confrontations over the years, AJ has consistently impressed me with his passion and commitment to delivering the best possible performance. He’s a shining example of what it means to be a professional wrestler.”
A Lasting Impact on WWE
Orton’s comments were echoed by several other WWE Superstars, including a source close to Cody Rhodes, who revealed that Styles’ influence extends far beyond his impressive in-ring accomplishments. “AJ’s legacy is not solely defined by his impressive resume or his numerous championships,” the source stated. “He’s helped shape the careers of countless wrestlers, including Cody and myself. His dedication to mentoring and guidance has made a lasting impact on WWE, and his influence will be felt for years to come.”
A Look Back at Styles’ Career
AJ Styles burst onto the WWE scene in 2016, making an immediate impact with his high-flying moveset and charismatic personality. Throughout his tenure, he has established himself as one of the most beloved and respected Superstars in the industry, with a resume that boasts three WWE World Championships and numerous other titles. His legendary matches against the likes of John Cena, Daniel Bryan, and AJ Lee have become the stuff of legend, cementing his status as one of the all-time greats.
The Impact of Styles’ Retirement on WWE
AJ Styles’ retirement has sent shockwaves throughout the WWE locker room, with several Superstars expressing their admiration and gratitude for the legendary wrestler. According to a WWE insider, Styles’ departure has left a void that will be difficult to fill. “AJ’s retirement is a significant loss for WWE, both creatively and emotionally,” the insider stated. “His absence will be deeply felt by his peers and the fans, who have come to expect a certain level of excellence from him. However, his legacy will live on, inspiring future generations of wrestlers to strive for greatness.”
A Lasting Tribute to a WWE Legend
As fans and fellow Superstars alike come to terms with AJ Styles’ retirement, one thing is certain – his impact on WWE will be felt for years to come. Through his tireless work ethic, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion, he has inspired a generation of wrestlers to strive for greatness. Randy Orton’s heartfelt tribute serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy that AJ Styles has built, both in and out of the ring.
“In an industry where careers are fleeting and moments of greatness are often short-lived, AJ’s impact is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence,” Orton concluded. “He may have hung up his boots, but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of wrestlers, ensuring that his impact on WWE will be felt for years to come.”