Credit: WWE.com
AJ Styles stirred the WWE universe with an intense off-air promo on the September 8th episode of Raw, name-dropping former stablemates Michin, Doc Gallows, and Karl Anderson while hinting at backstage politics affecting his career. The promo, which aired during a commercial break and went largely unnoticed in real time, has since prompted heartfelt and humorous responses from both Michin and Doc Gallows, reigniting interest in the fractured dynamics of The OC faction.
AJ Styles’ Surprising Pipebomb on Raw
Before his match against El Grande Americano on Raw, AJ Styles grabbed a microphone during a commercial break to deliver a rare, candid promo. He openly expressed frustration over his perceived isolation within WWE, stating:
“For the first time in my career, I’ve got no one watching my back. Gallows, Anderson, they’re not here. Michin, she’s on SmackDown.”
He implied “someone” behind the scenes was orchestrating obstacles for him, making it “like someone orchestrated a way for me not to win anymore” and hinted at a possible conspiracy to hold him back. Styles concluded by telling the live Milwaukee crowd that this wasn’t something “you’re probably not supposed to hear,” underscoring the serious tone of his comments. Despite distractions during his match, Styles prevailed against El Grande Americano, but the promo left fans and insiders buzzing about his future and backstage dynamics.
Michin’s Heartfelt Support: Loyalty Across Brands
Michin, who currently performs on WWE SmackDown and was part of The OC alongside Styles, Gallows, and Anderson, responded warmly on social media to Styles’ mention. Without hesitation, she reassured her loyalty, tweeting:
“I’ll have your back forever, Uncle Al.”
This message signaled that despite the physical and brand separations within WWE the fact that Michin and Styles are on different shows her allegiance to AJ Styles remains intact. Michin addressing him as “Uncle Al” also highlights their close bond forged during their shared time in The OC.
Doc Gallows’ Wry Humor on the Pipebomb
Luke Gallows, known as Doc Gallows in WWE, who was released from the company in February 2025 along with Karl Anderson, offered a lighter but equally telling response. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Gallows joked:
“I’m going to start charging royalties for #pipebombs.”
His humorous take on Styles’ candid promo suggests a veteran’s recognition of the impact such moments have on wrestling narratives and fans. Gallows’ playful tone contrasts with Styles’ serious message but also confirms that former stable members are still watching and engaging with Styles’ WWE journey, showing their enduring camaraderie.
What This Means for The OC and AJ Styles’ WWE Future
The OC faction, once a dominant force in WWE consisting of AJ Styles, Doc Gallows, Karl Anderson, and Michin, has been fractured by WWE releases and brand splits. With Gallows and Anderson out of WWE since early 2025 and Michin on SmackDown, Styles finds himself increasingly isolated on Raw.
A WWE insider revealed, “AJ’s frustration is something that’s been simmering backstage. With his main allies gone or separated, it’s natural for him to feel vulnerable, especially with his contract nearing its expiration early next year.” Although Styles defeated El Grande Americano, his rhetorical questions about who wants him at WWE highlight ongoing uncertainty about his long-term position in the company.
Sources close to WWE reported that Styles has been exploring options beyond WWE, including appearances at wrestling conventions, fueling speculation about his potential departure or move to other projects after his current contract ends in February 2026 between Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 42. However, insiders stress no definitive decisions have been made.
Behind the Scenes: The Complex WWE Politics
Styles’ reference to someone “orchestrating a way for me not to win anymore” hints at possible backstage politics or creative frustrations. Wrestling insiders suggest this might allude to WWE Raw officials or management decisions that have impacted Styles’ storylines and alliances. His mention of Michin being on SmackDown also underscores WWE’s brand separation strategy that often fractures cohesive factions and team-ups.
According to a WWE insider, “Talent movements between brands and executive creative decisions create natural rifts. AJ’s candid remarks, especially off-air, expose the frustration felt by veterans who once had a close-knit group like The OC but now must navigate shifting backstage landscapes alone.”
Fan and Media Reactions
The wrestling community has met the promo and ensuing reactions with a mix of surprise and analysis. Fans admire Styles for voicing his frustrations so publicly, seeing it as a rare glimpse behind WWE’s polished facade. Media outlets highlighted the heartfelt reply from Michin and the humorous jab from Gallows as signs that The OC’s legacy still resonates strongly, despite their current separate path.
Moreover, the promo has sparked renewed discussions about Styles’ legacy and impending contract renewal. His current WWE 2K25 card addition, featuring his retro “Get Ready To Fly” theme, complements the narrative of a veteran grappling with his past and future status.
