AJ Styles Inducted Into WWE Hall Of Fame After Legitimate Undertaker Surprise (WWE News)

Reports flooding in say AJ Styles had ZERO clue what was coming on WWE Raw.

By Jamie Kennedy /

WWE.com

Bryan Alvarez of The Wrestling Observer claims that AJ Styles didn't know The Undertaker was going to show up to Raw and announce his induction into the 2026 WWE Hall Of Fame. Reportedly, that decision was kept under wraps so it'd come as a complete surprise to the recently-retired veteran.

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Styles did seem totally taken aback when 'The Deadman', who shared a memorable 'Boneyard Match' with AJ back at WrestleMania 36 before retiring himself, ambled out to break the news. Naturally, the announcement that Styles will be a WWE HOF'er played before a giddy response from the live crowd in Atlanta.

The entire episode of Monday's flagship was dedicated to AJ's wrestling career. During his 'thank you' speech, he credited fans for sticking by him throughout runs in TNA and WWE. Styles also put respect on time spent over in Japan as no stone was unturned.

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Then, out came 'Taker and AJ was the proverbial deer caught in headlights as his plans for 'Mania 42 weekend unfolded in front of him. He'll be honoured shortly before the annual PLE in Las Vegas, but exactly who will induct Styles remains to be seen.

It won't be Undertaker - he's locked in to induct Stephanie McMahon.

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AJ Becomes Second WWE HOF 2026 Inductee

WWE.com

McMahon is the headliner for this year's Hall Of Fame ceremony, but most hardcore wrestling fans will be eager to hear from AJ first and foremost. Despite effectively being upper midcard to Steph's main event spot, Styles deserves his flowers and could steal the show in Vegas.

It'd be lovely if one of his good friends could induct him on the night. WWE hasn't always left that up to inductees themselves, but it'd be the right thing to do here. AJ has been a workhorse throughout his entire career, and he's given a solid 10 years of service to the market leader. Letting him enjoy basking in the fruits of his labour alongside family and friends sounds good.

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The 2026 WWE HOF ceremony takes place during WrestleMania weekend. As always, it'll be an emotional evening for all concerned. Then, Triple H and his troops will get right back down to business across multiple nights at Allegiant Stadium.

Congrats to AJ Styles on his induction and the announcement on this week's Raw. Few deserve the distinction more than him.

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