AJ Styles, one of the most celebrated figures in professional wrestling, has had a storied career that spans multiple promotions, including WWE, TNA, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. His journey to becoming a wrestling legend was not without its turning points, one of which involved a pivotal decision to prioritize his personal life over a WWE opportunity. While the original reference discusses AJ Styles and his decision-making before signing with WWE, it highlights the importance of personal and professional balance in the wrestling industry.
Early Career and Initial WWE Offer
Before his famous WWE debut in the 2016 Royal Rumble, AJ Styles had already had brushes with WWE. However, his path to stardom was diverged when he rejected a developmental contract in 2002. After WCW folded, Styles wrestled in a few tryout matches for WWE, impressing enough to be offered a deal. This would have required him to relocate to Cincinnati, Ohio, to work with the Heartland Wrestling Association, a developmental territory for WWE at the time[3].
“Looking back, it was a tough decision, but one that ultimately allowed me to keep my family rooted,” Styles reflected in an interview, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability during that period of his life.
Prioritizing Family
The decision to turn down the WWE offer was heavily influenced by his personal circumstances. Styles’ wife was in college, and he did not want to uproot his family to pursue a wrestling career that, at the time, was not guaranteed. This commitment to supporting his family’s goals led him to opt for a different path in wrestling[3].
According to a source close to Styles, “He always prioritized his family’s needs and his wife’s education over any short-term gains in his wrestling career. It speaks to his character and why he’s so respected both in and out of the ring.”
Alternatives and Success
Instead of joining WWE’s developmental system, Styles chose to sign with TNA Wrestling (now known as Impact Wrestling), where he would go on to become a cornerstone of the promotion. His time in TNA was marked by numerous championship reigns and a reputation as one of the best performers in the business. This decision allowed him to maintain a stable home life while still pursuing his wrestling dreams[3].
Later, Styles would join New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), where he enjoyed significant success as a member of the Bullet Club. His performances in NJPW further cemented his status as a world-class wrestler, eventually leading to his signing with WWE in 2016[1].
WWE Debut and Success
AJ Styles’ eventual WWE debut in 2016 was nothing short of spectacular. Entering the Royal Rumble match at number three, he immediately made an impact, lasting almost 29 minutes before being eliminated by Kevin Owens[1]. This marked the beginning of a successful run in WWE, where he would become a multiple-time champion, including two WWE Championships[1].
Styles’ journey serves as a testament to the importance of balancing personal and professional goals. His ability to prioritize his family while still achieving great success in wrestling is an inspiration to many.
Backstage Perspectives
Speaking about Styles’ decision-making process, a WWE insider noted, “AJ’s commitment to his family’s well-being was always a defining characteristic. It’s a quality that has endeared him to fans and colleagues alike, and it’s part of why he’s been able to maintain such a strong career trajectory.”
Conclusion
AJ Styles’ decision to prioritize his day job and family over a developmental contract with WWE (or more specifically, a developmental offer after WCW’s demise) was a pivotal moment in his career. It reflects his dedication to his personal life and his ability to navigate the wrestling landscape effectively. Today, Styles is recognized as one of the greatest wrestlers of his generation, with a legacy that extends beyond his in-ring accomplishments to his commitment to family and personal values.