In an exclusive interview, WWE Hall of Famer and wrestling legend AJ Styles has shared his thoughts on the backstage atmosphere before and after his highly anticipated match against Gunther at the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble. Styles, known for his exceptional in-ring prowess and charisma, walked away from WWE in 2023, leaving behind a legacy that has only grown in the months since his departure.
The final match between Styles and Gunther, a highly skilled and dominant force in the WWE Universe, marked a pivotal moment in the career of both competitors. Gunther’s win was met with a mixture of surprise and admiration from fans, who recognized the exceptional effort put forth by both men in the ring.
Before the match, Styles reflected on the pre-match atmosphere in the locker room, saying, “The energy was electric. It was clear that Gunther and I were going to give it our all, and the rest of the locker room was behind us. Everyone knew that this was a special moment, not just for the two of us, but for the fans who had been waiting to see us face off in the ring.”
Styles’ words echo the sentiment of many fans, who felt that the buildup to this match was one of the most compelling storylines in recent WWE history. The tension between Styles and Gunther was palpable, with both men trading verbal jabs and physical intimidation in the weeks leading up to the event.
In the locker room, Styles recalled, “Gunther was focused, as always. He was calm and collected, but you could sense the intensity burning inside him. I, on the other hand, was feeling a mix of emotions – excitement, nervousness, and a hint of sadness, knowing that this could be my last match in the WWE.”
The post-match atmosphere was a different story altogether. Styles, who had put everything he had into the match, was visibly shaken, but ultimately proud of the effort he had put forth. “After the match, I was emotional, but not for the reason you might think. I was emotional because I knew that I had given it my all, and I had nothing left to give. Gunther was a worthy opponent, and I have nothing but respect for him.”
The reaction from fans was also telling. Many were disappointed that Styles had walked away, but there was an overwhelming sense of admiration for the match itself and the effort put forth by both men. On social media, fans were praising the match, with many using the hashtag #AJStyles to express their appreciation for the legendary wrestler.
As for future WWE implications, Styles’ departure has left a void in the top-tier of the WWE roster. With Styles no longer a part of the company, fans are eagerly anticipating who will step up to fill the gap. Gunther, who emerged victorious in the match, is now being touted as a potential top contender for the WWE Championship.
However, it remains to be seen whether Gunther will be able to capitalize on his win and cement his status as a top-tier wrestler. The WWE Universe is eagerly watching to see how he will perform in the coming weeks and months.
In conclusion, AJ Styles’ final match against Gunther at the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble was a momentous occasion that will be remembered for years to come. The backstage atmosphere before and after the match was a testament to the respect and admiration that both men have for one another, both in and out of the ring.
FAQ Section
Q: What was the context of AJ Styles’ final match against Gunther?
A: AJ Styles’ final match against Gunther was a culmination of weeks of tension and build-up, with both men trading verbal jabs and physical intimidation in the lead-up to the event.
Q: What was the post-match atmosphere like in the locker room?
A: After the match, AJ Styles was visibly shaken, but ultimately proud of the effort he had put forth. Gunther, on the other hand, was his usual composed self, but with a hint of satisfaction at having emerged victorious.
Q: What was the fan reaction to the match?
A: Fans were praising the match itself and the effort put forth by both men, with many using the hashtag #AJStyles to express their appreciation for the legendary wrestler.
Q: What are the future WWE implications of AJ Styles’ departure?
A: With Styles no longer a part of the company, fans are eagerly anticipating who will step up to fill the gap. Gunther, who emerged victorious in the match, is now being touted as a potential top contender for the WWE Championship.
Q: Will Gunther be able to capitalize on his win and cement his status as a top-tier wrestler?
A: Only time will tell, but the WWE Universe is eagerly watching to see how he will perform in the coming weeks and months.