AJ Styles Beats Shinsuke Nakamura in Classic Bout at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event

AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura came ready in what is likely their last-ever matchup against each other, and they delivered an absolute classic in Montreal at Saturday Night’s Main Event. The crowd was wired, and Styles eventually came out the victor.

Styles came out wearing a mask for his entrance attire. It’s the first time he has come out wearing a mask in 10 years. The last time was when he faced Nakamura at Wrestle Kingdom in NJPW in 2016.

It was an incredible back-and-forth bout. Both men busted out some surprising moves. Styles hit Nakamura with the Kinshada. Meanwhile, Nakamura even utilized the Slingblade on Styles.

However, AJ Styles eventually secured the victory, nailing a Phenomenal Forearm followed by a Styles Clash to get the pin. After the pin, both longtime rivals showed each other mutual respect, bowing to one another, bumping fists, and embracing. Styles also raised Nakamura’s hand after the bout.

Now, Styles will have to face what could be his toughest challenge yet. In just one week, he faces Gunther at WWE Royal Rumble 2026, with Styles’ career hanging in the balance. If Styles loses, he must retire.

Highlights and clips of the classic Styles vs. Nakamura bout are available below. You can also check out 411’s live coverage of the event RIGHT HERE.

COME ONNNNNNNNNN!!!! 🔥

Two of the best… one last time.

Take it in. pic.twitter.com/LoWtVYDKCt

— WWE (@WWE) January 25, 2026

To: Gunther

From: AJ Styles

AJ sending a message to The Ring General 👀 pic.twitter.com/VNcYirznQ1

— WWE (@WWE) January 25, 2026

WHAT. A. MATCH. 👏

NEXT SATURDAY: Gunther vs. Styles with AJ's career on the line.

Could Royal Rumble be the end for AJ Styles? pic.twitter.com/aG73HYGkW9

— WWE (@WWE) January 25, 2026