Following AJ Styles’ defeat by GUNTHER at the WWE Royal Rumble last weekend, fans and insiders quickly began debating whether this match marked the end of Styles’ WWE run. Many speculated if Styles might seek another opportunity outside WWE, considering his past with promotions like TNA and New Japan. AEW also emerged as a potential new destination, as it remains the only major wrestling organization Styles has yet to join during his extensive career.
Tony Khan Reflects on AJ Styles’ Career Without Addressing AEW Prospects
When AEW owner Tony Khan appeared on the Battleground Podcast earlier this week, the conversation turned to AJ Styles’ legacy rather than any direct discussion of a move to AEW. Khan emphasized Styles’ achievements across various wrestling promotions, highlighting the breadth and impact of his career worldwide.
I’m a huge fan of AJ Styles,
Khan said. I think he’s incredible. He’s had great matches all over the world. We were just talking about ROH. He did some incredible things in ROH that are part of our library, and also with our partners in New Japan Pro Wrestling. He was involved in some of the all-time greatest matches. His match with Minoru Suzuki is one of my all time favorites. And he’s had great matches with multiple companies all over the world.
Khan Expresses Highest Praise, Calling Styles Among the Best Ever
Although Styles has never appeared in AEW, Khan acknowledged his solid history with companies associated with AEW, especially ROH. Khan expressed personal admiration for Styles, considering him one of the greatest wrestlers he has ever seen.
He’s never been in AEW before, but certainly, with a lot of the promotions we’ve worked with, and of course in ROH he has a great history. And for me, he’s one of my all-time favorites. Just personally, in my opinion, I think he’s one of the greatest wrestlers ever. So I have only the highest praise for AJ Styles.
What This Means for AJ Styles and AEW’s Future
Though Tony Khan stopped short of confirming any plans for Styles to join AEW, his enthusiastic praise highlights the high regard Styles commands in the wrestling industry. Should Styles decide to compete outside WWE again, AEW could emerge as a natural fit given its partnerships and Styles’ respected past with allied promotions. Fans and insiders will be watching closely to see if Styles’ next move brings him into AEW’s growing spotlight.
