When AJ Styles made his WWE debut in 2016, fans and insiders alike expected a smooth rise for the acclaimed wrestler known globally as “The Phenomenal One.” However, according to Nic Nemeth (better known as Dolph Ziggler), WWE’s former chairman Vince McMahon initially had reservations about Styles’ potential in the company. Despite being a decorated and versatile talent outside WWE, AJ Styles faced an unusually skeptical reception behind the scenes, making his path to superstardom far from certain.
Vince McMahon’s Old-School Lens on Talent Evaluation
Talking on the Busted Open podcast, Nic Nemeth provided insight into Vince McMahon’s early perception of AJ Styles when he first arrived in WWE. Nemeth revealed that Vince approached AJ with an “80s mentality,” focusing heavily on physical stature and presence over pure wrestling skill or charisma. Vince reportedly favored wrestlers standing around six-foot-five, like the towering Warlord, and AJ’s relatively smaller stature did not fit that mold.
Additionally, Nemeth shared that Vince’s perception also hinged on AJ’s Southern accent, which may have subconsciously affected his credibility in McMahon’s eyes. Nemeth paraphrased how Vince joked in typical old-school fashion, implying he initially didn’t take AJ seriously because of his voice and size. This outdated viewpoint reflected a time when WWE talent was often chosen based on a specific prototype influenced by regional accents and physical presence rather than in-ring ability or fan connection.
AJ Styles’ Journey From Skepticism to Stardom
Despite McMahon’s initial doubts, AJ Styles quickly silenced critics through his work ethic and undeniable talent. Upon debuting, AJ rapidly climbed the WWE ranks, capturing multiple championships, including two WWE Championship reigns and three U.S. Championship titles. He also added Intercontinental and Tag Team Championships to his resume, demonstrating his versatility and broad appeal.
According to a WWE insider, “AJ’s commitment to perfecting his craft and connecting with the WWE Universe forced Vince and the entire locker room to take notice. What looked like a gamble on a smaller guy with an accent became one of the smartest investments WWE has ever made.” This turnaround story is a testament to both AJ’s ability to adapt and win over traditionalists and the evolving approach of WWE’s leadership toward talent evaluation.
The Importance of Breaking Old Mindsets in WWE
AJ Styles’ example underscores a significant shift in WWE’s talent scouting and booking philosophies. Nic Nemeth’s recounting of Vince’s initial impression highlights the clash between old-school wrestling stereotypes and the modern wrestling landscape, where skill, personality, and fan engagement matter more than mere size or accent.
Nemeth stressed how AJ’s journey serves as a beacon for other talents who might not fit classic molds but possess undeniable charisma and in-ring prowess. “It’s proof that the industry can evolve. If Vince could adjust his thinking on AJ, it means there’s room for change and not just in terms of physical traits, but how we all perceive what makes a star,” Nemeth commented.
Backstage Reaction: Respect Earned Over Time
Sources close to WWE locker room dynamics also reveal that AJ’s work ethic and humility gradually earned the respect not only of Vince but other veteran performers. As one backstage source put it, “At first, AJ had to fight for every inch of respect because of preconceived notions, but he never let frustration show. He just kept delivering in the ring and that’s what counts in WWE.”
This steady build-up established AJ as a locker room leader and fan favorite, exemplifying a career pathway where perseverance triumphs over initial skepticism.
Dolph Ziggler’s Perspective
As a peer who has navigated his own share of WWE’s shifting attitudes, Nic Nemeth’s reflections on Vince’s mindset offer a rare backstage perspective. Known for his own longevity and adaptability in wrestling, Nemeth acknowledged that industry veterans sometimes hold onto outdated evaluations that new stars like AJ profoundly challenge.
Nemeth’s insights bring to light how much the wrestling industry has changed or still needs to change in breaking free from reliance on outdated stereotypes about size, style, or accents. His commentary suggests a more inclusive and talent-first approach is both necessary and already underway in WWE.