AJ Styles‘ WWE contract is scheduled to expire in February 2026, shortly after the Royal Rumble and ahead of WrestleMania 42, drawing intense attention from the WWE Universe. Amidst this looming deadline, Styles unleashed a highly charged promo during a Monday Night RAW commercial break on September 8, 2025, that has ignited debate over whether it was a scripted storyline or a genuine shoot, raising questions about his status and relationships within WWE.
Details Surrounding AJ Styles’ Contract and Career Outlook
Earlier in 2025, AJ Styles agreed to a one-year contract extension following a significant injury hiatus. Before settling on this deal, he reportedly considered opportunities outside WWE, attracting interest from various promotions but ultimately reaffirmed his commitment to WWE. Styles has publicly voiced his wish to retire before turning 50, a milestone that is approaching within the next two years, adding further urgency to discussions about his future.
The context of Styles’ recent promo gains added weight considering his history with WWE and his former stablemates. Having lost several close allies who departed WWE, Styles spoke candidly about feeling isolated and unprotected backstage. This vulnerability sharply contrasts with his customary image as a resilient and independent top-tier superstar.
The Controversial Promo That Divided Fans and Analysts
During a commercial break at the Milwaukee RAW event, Styles delivered a passionate and blistering promo, openly declaring that he felt alienated and targeted by unspecified forces within WWE. He lamented the exit of his former OC teammates and emphasized his lack of support, which surprised many due to the raw tone and candid nature of his comments.
The segment was not broadcast live on television but was shared widely on social media, igniting heated speculation among fans and commentators about whether it was part of an elaborate storyline or an unscripted shoot. WWE’s silence on the promo’s nature intensified this divide, leaving viewers unsure whether Styles’ remarks were scripted hints about a farewell or a genuine airing of backstage grievances.
Bully Ray’s Perspective on Styles’ Unexpected Shoot Promo
On his Busted Open Radio podcast, Bully Ray expressed surprise at Styles breaking character to issue such frank criticisms. He underscored that AJ Styles traditionally embodies the role of a heroic, self-reliant figure who triumphs without external help, making this portrayal of vulnerability unusual.
“I don’t know [who he’s talking about], but I’m shocked that AJ Styles went into business for himself and started shooting on the microphone. That normally doesn’t happen, but he did it last night, ’cause that was a straight up shoot, brother,” Ray said. “Outside of the box, do you think this has something to do with TNA? There was an aspect of what AJ said that I did not like. AJ insinuated that he can’t win around here, because he’s got nobody protecting him and nobody’s got his back. AJ is an uber babyface, white meat babyface, you don’t need anybody, you win on your own.”
Ray further suggested the timing and method of the promo’s airing was strategic, intended to provoke discussion and speculation online rather than traditional TV viewership.
“He cut the promo on commercial break, obviously, WWE didn’t want it on TV, they wanted it on social media. What they wanted to happen is exactly what we’re doing right now, we’re speculating. Hmm, who could he be talking about, and that’s what they want.”
Implications of Styles’ Remarks and What May Lie Ahead
AJ Styles’ viral promo has intensified speculation about his future and potential backstage conflicts, making the WWE community anxious about what his next steps might be. Given his contract will expire soon, this could be a precursor to a dramatic exit or a new storyline reflecting real tensions.
For WWE management and fans alike, the promo highlights the fragile balance between on-screen storytelling and backstage realities. If Styles’ statements are indeed a shoot, it may signal unrest within the locker room or dissatisfaction with his current status. Conversely, if it’s a crafted farewell angle, it could set the stage for a significant storyline leading to his eventual departure.
With WrestleMania 42 approaching, all eyes will be on AJ Styles and WWE’s next moves, as the promo’s aftermath promises to shape the narrative around one of the company’s most respected talents.
Additional Developments in WWE and Wrestling World
Meanwhile, other wrestling news continues to unfold, including Triple H’s comments on WWE’s controversial ties with Saudi Arabia and a WWE Hall of Famer’s sharp criticism of Ronda Rousey’s approach to professional wrestling. Triple H recently addressed viral photos of himself wearing the same swim trunks from 15 years ago during a vacation with Stephanie McMahon.
In the broader wrestling landscape, a former World Champion has solidified a contract with AEW after previous appearances, while speculation mounts about another WWE legend’s imminent return following AJ Lee’s recent comeback. Additionally, a three-time WWE Champion has expressed intent to settle a final in-ring score with John Cena, and the TKO boss pointed out one of Vince McMahon’s missed opportunities in WWE history.
WWE and AEW stars have also made headlines involving off-ring events, such as Shayna Baszler saving a former WWE champion in a bar fight, underscoring the continued crossover between wrestling and real life drama.
