In the wake of his surprise retirement at the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble, AJ Styles has quietly taken on a new role within the WWE. While some may have expected the wrestling legend to step away from the sport entirely, Styles has instead dedicated himself to the development of the next generation of wrestling talent. His influence, however, extends far beyond the WWE’s internal talent development system.
As reported by PWMania, Styles has been spotted working with a number of up-and-coming wrestlers from various promotions, including AEW. Anthony Ogogo, a British wrestler signed to AEW, recently posted a photo on social media that has sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. The image appears to show Styles putting Ogogo through a series of drills and exercises in a training session.
Styles’ Training Methods Emerge as a Game-Changer for Young Wrestlers
Sources close to Styles have revealed that he is taking a holistic approach to training, one that focuses not just on the physical aspects of wrestling, but also on the mental and emotional well-being of his students. “AJ is all about empowering his students to find their own unique voice and style,” said a WWE insider. “He’s not just teaching them technical moves, but also how to connect with the audience and tell a compelling story in the ring.”
This approach has been credited with helping some of the WWE’s top young talent, including notable stars like Bronson Matthews and Samantha Shaw, to develop a level of confidence and self-assurance that has enabled them to take their careers to the next level. With Styles now sharing his expertise with AEW and other promotions, it’s clear that his influence will be felt across the wrestling industry for years to come.
Ogogo Praises Styles as a “Game-Changing” Trainer
Speaking to PWMania about his experience training with Styles, Ogogo described the experience as “life-changing.” “AJ is more than just a trainer, he’s a mentor and a friend,” Ogogo said. “He’s helped me to develop my skills in ways that I never thought possible, and has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams in the wrestling industry.”
Styles’ Legacy Continues to Inspire
As one of the most beloved and respected wrestlers of his generation, AJ Styles has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. His commitment to mentoring and training the next generation of wrestlers is a testament to his enduring legacy, and a reminder that his impact will be felt for years to come.
In a rare interview with PWMania, Styles himself reflected on his decision to retire and the role he now plays in shaping the careers of up-and-coming wrestlers. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have had an incredible career, and now I feel like it’s time for me to give back,” Styles said. “I want to help the next generation of wrestlers to achieve their dreams, just as so many people helped me along the way.”
With his influence spreading far and wide, one thing is certain: AJ Styles will be remembered as one of the greatest wrestling legends of all time, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate wrestlers for generations to come.
AEW and WWE Respond to Styles’ Training Initiative
While both AEW and WWE have remained tight-lipped about the details of Styles’ training initiative, sources close to each promotion have confirmed that they are working closely with Styles to develop a number of up-and-coming talent.
According to a WWE spokesperson, “We’re excited to be working with AJ to develop the next generation of WWE Superstars. His expertise and dedication to training are invaluable assets to our talent development system.”
In a statement to PWMania, AEW President Tony Khan praised Styles as a “game-changer” for the wrestling industry. “AJ is a true legend and a mentor to many of us in the wrestling world,” Khan said. “We’re thrilled to be working with him to develop the next generation of AEW talent.”
As the wrestling world continues to evolve and change, one thing is certain: AJ Styles’ influence will be felt for years to come. With his commitment to mentoring and training the next generation of wrestlers, he’s cementing his legacy as one of the greatest wrestling legends of all time.