Jacob Fatu, a prominent WWE star, acknowledged AJ Styles for encouraging him to wrestle shirtless following a significant weight loss. Fatu made his comeback on the January 9 episode of SmackDown during the intense Three Stages of Hell match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre, marking his return after several months off due to a dental injury. His dramatic interference affected the course of the match, impacting the Undisputed WWE Championship, while fans also noticed his much trimmer physique.
Motivation Behind Fatu’s Physical Transformation
In a candid discussion with Busted Open, Fatu revealed that his weight reduction was prompted by both feedback from WWE producer Michael Hayes and a sense of urgency about his WWE career progressing. Hayes had advised him that his conditioning would influence his trajectory in wrestling. Reflecting on being sluggish during a run-in just prior to his injury, Fatu stated,
“But then I had to remember man, ‘All the years I took to get here, what are you doing?’”
This realization, combined with his injury involving the removal of 11 teeth, motivated him to improve his fitness while away from television.
AJ Styles’ Role in Fatu’s Shirtless Wrestling Return
Fatu gave credit to AJ Styles for inspiring him to confidently wrestle without a shirt at the January 24 Saturday Night’s Main Event. Upon seeing Fatu’s transformation, Styles questioned him,
“Dude are you freaking gonna wear a shirt out there?”
Fatu was initially hesitant but acknowledged Styles encouraging words,
“You freaking got abs I would go out there with no shirt.”
This endorsement helped Fatu overcome his hesitation, admitting,
“I was ashamed to take it off, I was gonna wrestle with no shirts but it was just a process of doing it. And when The Phenomenal One says, ‘Hey man, I would do this.’ I’m like, ‘Ok I’m a listen.’”
Looking Ahead: AJ Styles’ Retirement and WWE Tribute
AJ Styles is set to retire at Royal Rumble 2026, with WWE planning a tribute to honor his career in his home state of Georgia on the February 23 episode of Raw. Fatu’s recent interview sheds light not only on his commitment to fitness and wrestling style but also on the respect he has for Styles as a mentor. This period marks a transition for both wrestlers—Styles concluding a celebrated career, and Fatu establishing a refreshed presence on WWE programming.
The Importance of Physical Conditioning and Mentorship in WWE
Jacob Fatu’s journey illustrates the crucial role of physical condition in professional wrestling and how encouragement from veteran wrestlers like AJ Styles can influence performance choices. His comeback after a serious dental injury and weight loss demonstrates dedication and the impact of peer support. As WWE continues to highlight such stories, fans gain insight into the personal challenges and transformations behind the spectacle inside the ring.
