AJ Styles has praised Iyo Sky and Asuka as two of the most outstanding wrestlers on the WWE roster, highlighting how their development in Japan has contributed to their success. As the WWE women’s division continues to thrive with a mix of established stars and rising talent, comparisons are being made that position Asuka as potentially the female equivalent of Roman Reigns.
The Rise and Rivalry Between Iyo Sky and Asuka
Iyo Sky has rapidly ascended to become a leading figure in the WWE women’s division and is widely regarded as one of the best competitors in the company. Asuka, who similarly rose through WWE’s NXT brand before capturing the main roster’s world championship, has stepped back recently but remains a formidable presence. Their ongoing feud on RAW, fueled by Asuka’s betrayal of Iyo and backed by Kairi Sane, has generated considerable excitement among wrestling fans.
Ahead of WWE’s tour in Japan, AJ Styles shared his admiration for both athletes during an interview with ABEMA, describing their exceptional talents. He said,
“Iyo Sky is one of the best athletes I have ever seen. She is unbelievable. There’s other girls that have gotten the opportunity — Asuka’s amazing as well. They just have something that a lot of other — not just women, but men — that some of them just don’t have.”
?AJ Styles, WWE Wrestler
Before joining WWE, both wrestlers honed their craft extensively in Japan. Iyo Sky, formerly known as Io Shirai, was a two-time Wonder of Stardom champion, while Asuka, once known as Kana, held prestigious titles such as the JWP Openweight and Smash Diva Championships. Their deep roots in Japanese wrestling contribute to their relentless style; Styles remarked,
Image of: Roman Reigns
“I think that it’s because they were in Japan that they have this tenacity, maybe that’s what it is. So, I just enjoy watching them work, and just in awe of how good they are.”
?AJ Styles, WWE Wrestler
The two were previously teammates in the faction Triple Tails, competing internationally in Japan and Mexico throughout the 2010s. WWE might revisit this history, potentially allowing Asuka to fully embrace her “Evil Clown” persona from her Kana days during their current storyline.
Comparing Asuka’s Star Power to Roman Reigns
Asuka’s peak in WWE occurred in the late 2010s, notably winning the 2018 Women’s Royal Rumble after a dominant NXT run where she held the Women’s Championship for a record 510 days. At 44, she remains one of WWE’s most successful female performers, though some believe she has not been consistently featured in top-tier main event roles.
This sentiment was echoed by Road Dogg, a current SmackDown writer, in September 2023. Speaking on his podcast, he stated,
“I think as far as presentation, in ring skills, dare I say promo skills, just because I love what she does and how she represents herself via her verbal skills, I just love it, and I think everybody else does too. I think she should probably be the Roman Reigns of women’s wrestling right now. It’s just my opinion.”
?Road Dogg, SmackDown Writer
Roman Reigns has been the defining face of WWE in recent years, the centerpiece of the company’s transition under new ownership. During Road Dogg’s comments, Reigns was amid a historic reign as Undisputed WWE Champion, reinforcing his position as WWE’s “Tribal Chief” and poster star.
Addressing concerns about Asuka’s promo abilities given language barriers, Road Dogg argued that the modern audience is ready for a different approach. He explained,
“I know the big argument is, well, she can’t cut a promo domestically. I think we’re past that as a culture, as a society. I think it’s totally okay if she spoke in her native tongue and we subtitled it. I think it would be totally fine how we do it now where she just goes off and you don’t know what she’s saying but you know she’s saying something that ain’t nice to you. You know what I mean?”
?Road Dogg, SmackDown Writer
Asuka’s Legacy and the Future of WWE’s Women’s Division
Since joining WWE in September 2015, Asuka has solidified her status as a future Hall of Famer, currently playing a mentorship role for younger stars. Her ongoing feud with Iyo Sky draws significant attention, as tension-filled segments on RAW have captivated audiences. This rivalry not only pits two highly skilled performers against each other but also symbolizes the evolving strength and depth of the WWE women’s division.
With AJ Styles set to retire in 2026, his praise for these Japanese talents sheds light on the global nature of professional wrestling’s growth. Both Iyo Sky and Asuka continue to elevate the WWE landscape, inspiring fans and wrestlers alike with their relentless energy and unparalleled skills. Their rivalry and individual achievements suggest a bright future for women’s wrestling in WWE, where new legends are continually forged.
Kevin Jewell is a journalist at CynicalTimes.org, covering the WWE SmackDown Men’s Division.
With two years of experience, he reports on headline matches, major rivalries, and superstar developments from WWE’s blue brand.
Kevin brings sharp analysis, accurate updates, and a deep passion for storytelling to his coverage.
His work highlights the key figures, championship pursuits, and weekly action that define the SmackDown men’s roster.
From rising talents to veteran icons, Kevin delivers content that keeps fans informed and engaged with every twist in the ring.
