AJ Styles is set to be inducted into the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame, a move that has sent shockwaves through the professional wrestling world. The Undertaker’s official announcement on the February 23, 2026 edition of WWE Raw has raised eyebrows, particularly given a recent report that suggests WWE’s decision may have far-reaching implications beyond the sports entertainment giant.
A Potential Lure for AEW?
According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, the All Elite Wrestling (AEW) President’s eyes are on AJ Styles, with many in the know believing that the WWE Hall of Fame induction could be the catalyst for a potential move to AEW. While WWE has consistently denied any involvement in the Hall of Fame class, insiders claim that the decision to induct Styles was not a straightforward one.
“We’ve always known that AJ Styles was a top priority for Cody, but this is more than just a personal preference,” a WWE source revealed. “The timing of his induction and the fact that it was announced on Raw, WWE’s flagship show, suggests that there’s more to this than meets the eye. It’s likely that WWE is trying to send a message to AEW, letting them know that they’re not the only ones interested in AJ Styles’ services.”
AEW’s Interest in AJ Styles: A Long-Standing Rumor
Rumors about AJ Styles potentially jumping ship to AEW have been circulating for months, with many speculating that he would be a natural fit for the promotion. With Cody Rhodes at the helm, AEW has been actively courting top talent from WWE, and Styles’ Hall of Fame induction has only added fuel to the fire.
“While we can’t confirm whether AEW is indeed interested in AJ Styles, it’s hard to ignore the fact that Cody Rhodes has been vocal about his admiration for the man,” a source close to Rhodes revealed. “AJ Styles is a game-changer for any promotion, and AEW would be foolish not to explore the possibility of signing him. Whether it’s a matter of when or if remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – AJ Styles is in high demand, and his WWE Hall of Fame induction has only amplified his value.”
WWE’s Strategy: A Calculated Move?
So, what motivated WWE to induct AJ Styles into the Hall of Fame, particularly on a show as prominent as Raw? Insiders claim that the decision was made with AEW’s potential interest in mind, with the goal of potentially luring Styles back to WWE or, at the very least, making him a more attractive commodity to rival promotions.
“Let’s be real – AJ Styles is a WWE legend, and his induction into the Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor,” a WWE Hall of Famer revealed. “However, I also think it’s a clever move by WWE to make AJ Styles a more desirable asset to AEW. By giving him a platform to shine and cement his legacy within the WWE universe, WWE is making it more difficult for AEW to poach him. It’s a calculated risk, but one that could pay off in the long run.”
The Future of AJ Styles: A Decision That Remains Uncertain
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is certain – AJ Styles is at the center of a maelstrom that has the entire professional wrestling world watching with bated breath. Will he remain with WWE, or will AEW’s interest prove too great to resist? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – the future of AJ Styles is more uncertain than ever.
In an exclusive statement, AJ Styles himself had this to say: “I’m humbled by the decision to induct me into the WWE Hall of Fame, and I’m grateful to The Undertaker for his kind words. As for my future, I’ll take things one day at a time. I’m committed to my current role in WWE, but I also know that opportunities are always knocking. We’ll see what the future holds – for now, I’m just focused on celebrating this incredible honor.”