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AJ Styles is all set to make his highly anticipated WWE return on the upcoming edition of SmackDown. While there has been a wave of excitement among fans, the air is also thick with tension due to the ongoing rumors surfacing around him. There have been a lot of speculations of late regarding Styles' pro wrestling career nearing its final days.
Besides, his current contract is also reportedly set to expire by the end of this year or at the beginning of 2025. This could be an indication that The Phenomenal One might be in the final stretch of his in-ring career. While he already has a decorated career and nothing much left to prove, there are a few things the former WWE Champion must do before hanging up his boots.
Here are the four things AJ Styles must do in WWE before his potential retirement:
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#4. Revisit his rivalry with John Cena
WWE Superstar John Cena will return next year to commence his Retirement Tour. One of the most memorable feuds in his legendary career came with AJ Styles in 2016. Given that both superstars appear to be nearing the end of their pro wrestling careers, this could be the ideal time for them to add another chapter to their iconic rivalry.
During the first feud, AJ was in the initial stages of his career in the Stamford-based promotion. However, now the dynamics have changed completely, with The Phenomenal One being a multi-time champion in the company. Therefore, AJ Styles must revisit his feud with The Cenation Leader before drawing the curtains on his WWE career.
Moreover, revisiting this generational rivalry would provide The Phenomenal One with the high-profile feud he has been looking for a long time. It will add grandeur to his last run in the Sports Entertainment juggernaut.
#3. A final run as Undisputed WWE Champion
AJ Styles' first WWE Championship win redefined his career and pushed him to the top. However, it has been a while since the veteran superstar has held champion gold. Therefore, having another World Title run in his twilight years is something that must happen, as fans have been clamoring to see gold around Styles' waist.
A final run with the Undisputed WWE Championship has the potential of giving fans glimpses of the vintage AJ Styles, taking them down memory lane. Besides, retiring after having an exceptional title run could further cement his legacy. The Phenomenal One could headline multiple PLEs and carry the coveted title around the globe.
Moreover, he could deliver some incredible feuds and storylines in his final run as the Undisputed WWE Champion.
#2. A compelling feud with CM Punk
One of the things that AJ Styles must do before he hangs up his wrestling boots in WWE is feud with CM Punk. Both superstars have a rich history that dates back to their days in Ring of Honor, where they tore the house down. However, fans have never gotten to see The Phenomenal One compete against The Best in The World in the Stamford-based promotion.
Moreover, the two even had real-life heat a few years ago. Therefore, this could add an intense layer to the storyline if they herald a feud. Styles also expressed a desire to face The Second City Saint in a match. Now that both superstars are in the same company, The Phenomenal One must have a compelling feud with CM Punk before he retires.
In essence, both veterans have reached a stage in their careers where they have nothing left to prove. It sets up a perfect stage for a dream feud between the two top stars in the Endeavor-owned company.
#1. AJ Styles must headline WrestleMania
AJ Styles has had one of the most decorated careers in WWE. However, one thing that has always eluded him throughout his career is headling WrestleMania. Even though he has been in several editions of The Show of Shows, the 47-year-old has never been the headlining act on The Grandest Stage of Them All.
Hence, this is something that Styles must do in WWE before wrapping up his career. Besides, his WrestleMania career has been pretty lackluster. Therefore, the former WWE Champion could also take it as an opportunity to redeem himself in his last run. Closing out The Showcase of The Immortals for the first and last time in his career could be a poetic justice to his legendary career.
AJ Styles has nothing much left to prove in his pro wrestling career, as he is undoubtedly a future Hall of Famer. However, headling WrestleMania would add another jewel to his decorated crown and end his WWE career on a high note.
