AJ Styles has faced a challenging period over the past few weeks within WWE, as he has been locked in a fierce rivalry with Dominik Mysterio since the Night of Champions event. The 48-year-old wrestler has been striving to secure the Intercontinental Championship for a second time but has been unable to seize the opportunity. At SummerSlam, Styles had a chance to claim the title but fell short, and during last week’s episode of RAW, El Grande Americano’s interference cost him another shot at the championship.
During the September 8 taping in Milwaukee, Styles appeared noticeably upset before his match against El Grande Americano. Addressing the crowd, he expressed feelings of isolation, noting the absence of his former allies Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, both no longer with WWE, and Michin, who is now part of the SmackDown roster. Styles suggested that someone might be working against his presence in the company.
Though Dominik Mysterio refrained from intervening despite his connection to El Grande Americano, another masked luchador attempted to interfere in the bout but was quickly neutralized by Dragon Lee. Ultimately, AJ Styles secured a victory after delivering his signature Styles Clash finisher.
Responses from Luke Gallows and Michin Following Styles’ Comments
Following AJ Styles’ recent win over El Grande Americano, it appears likely that he will earn another opportunity to compete for the Intercontinental Championship soon. Meanwhile, his former partners Luke Gallows and Michin responded to his public acknowledgment of their absence. Michin, who recently lost her bid for the Women’s United States Championship against Giulia, showed support for Styles on X. Conversely, Luke Gallows, who is currently wrestling on the independent circuit, took the situation in stride with a lighter tone.
As Styles deals with these tensions, Dominik Mysterio has temporarily shifted his focus from their feud to prepare for his upcoming AAA Worlds Collide match against El Hijo del Vikingo.
Additional Updates from WWE and AEW
Outside of the AJ Styles storyline, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff recently offered uncommon praise for a strategic business move made by AEW’s Tony Khan. Meanwhile, Christian Cage, despite reuniting with Adam Copeland in AEW, emphasized that his goals remain independent.
Sting reflected on his four decades in wrestling, naming a singular moment as the pinnacle of his career. In other news, former WWE star Fandango, who was signed with WWE from 2006 to 2021, has officially tied the knot. Additionally, New Japan Pro Wrestling continues to experience strong ticket sales at premium prices for Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement event, despite company struggles.
Turning to celebrity rumors, Nikki Bella has publicly responded to unfounded accusations about exclusively dating younger men. Christian Cage also opened up about his current AEW run as he approaches the later stages of his professional wrestling career.
AJ Styles’ Future in WWE and Broader Wrestling Implications
AJ Styles’ candid remarks highlight growing challenges in his WWE journey as he navigates shifting alliances and a complicated competitive landscape. His implied suggestion that internal forces might be limiting his opportunities adds a layer of intrigue to his ongoing storyline. The backing from former partners, even if expressed in varied tones, suggests unresolved connections that could influence future developments.
Given his recent victory and the renewed attention on his ambitions, Styles is positioned to remain a key figure in the pursuit of the Intercontinental Championship. How WWE will shape his trajectory amid these tensions will be closely watched by fans and insiders alike.
“Michin, who recently unsuccessfully challenge Giulia for the Women’s United States Championship took to X to offer support to the veteran wrestler.”
— Michin
“Meanwhile, Dominik Mysterio has momentarily put aside the AJ Styles feud to focus on his AAA Worlds Collide clash against El Hijo del Vikingo.”
— WWE Announcement
