John Cena posted a nostalgic photo of AJ Styles on Instagram on Tuesday. He added no caption, letting the image speak for itself. The picture shows Styles in his Bullet Club gear, clutching the IWGP Heavyweight Championship belt. Fans quickly linked the post to the upcoming AJ Styles Royal Rumble 2026 match.
View this post on Instagram
Cena retired from full‑time competition earlier this year, yet he still influences WWE storylines. By highlighting Styles, he signals respect for a fellow veteran. The tribute also fuels speculation about Styles’ future, especially after rumors of his retirement surfaced.
AJ Styles’ Path to the Royal Rumble
AJ Styles will face GUNTHER in a career‑defining bout at the WWE Royal Rumble Saudi Arabia event on January 31. The match takes place in Riyadh, marking a rare main event for a non‑champion. Styles entered the Royal Rumble 2026 as a seasoned contender, and the match could decide if he walks out for the last time.
Bullet Club Throwback and IWGP History
The Instagram photo captures Styles during his time with the Bullet Club in New Japan Pro‑Wrestling. He first won the IWGP Heavyweight Championship by defeating Kazuchika Okada at Wrestling Dontaku in May 2014. After losing the title to Hiroshi Tanahashi later that year, he reclaimed it at The New Beginning in Osaka in February 2015. Okada ended Styles’ second reign at Dominion 7.5 in July 2015.
These achievements cement Styles as one of the few wrestlers to hold the IWGP Heavyweight Championship twice before joining WWE in January 2016. His legacy in Japan still resonates with fans worldwide.
John Cena vs. AJ Styles: A Recent Clash
During Cena’s retirement year, the two met at WWE Crown Jewel in Perth, Australia, in October 2025. Cena emerged victorious, adding another chapter to their rivalry. That match reminded fans of the chemistry they share inside the ring.
What Fans Can Expect
The upcoming Royal Rumble bout pits Styles against GUNTHER, a dominant force in WWE. If Styles loses, it could signal his final match before retirement. If he wins, he may chase a championship before stepping away. Either outcome will shape his legacy.
Social media buzz continues to grow as fans share the John Cena tribute and debate Styles’ next move. The combination of a heartfelt nod from Cena and the high stakes of the Royal Rumble creates a compelling narrative.
Stay tuned for live updates on the WWE Royal Rumble Saudi Arabia event. The match promises intense action, emotional moments, and possibly the end of an era for AJ Styles.
Source: Wrestletalk
