AJ Styles stands among the elite in professional wrestling—his reputation forged in classic battles across WWE, TNA, NJPW, and beyond. As “The Phenomenal One” nears the twilight of his storied career, fans and pundits alike wonder: who does AJ Styles most value sharing the ring with? In a candid discussion, Styles revealed the names and stories behind his favorite opponents, highlighting legacy, respect, and the electric chemistry that defines great matches.
Finn Balor: A Modern Rivalry Built on Respect and History
Few rivalries in recent WWE memory have captured the imagination quite like AJ Styles versus Finn Balor. Both men are former leaders of Bullet Club, both have global championship pedigrees, and both deliver world-class matches every time they meet. Styles and Balor first clashed in WWE in 2017, igniting a series of bouts that showcased their technical brilliance and mutual respect[2][5].
Styles has repeatedly praised Balor’s agility, creativity, and ability to adapt, calling their matches “some of the most fun and competitive I’ve ever had.” According to a WWE insider, “AJ and Finn push each other to their absolute limits. There’s a real sense of pride when they step in the ring together—they know the fans expect something special, and they always deliver.”
This rivalry, with its Bullet Club undertones and championship stakes, continues to be a favorite among fans. Styles himself noted backstage, “Finn brings out the best in me. Every time we lock up, it feels like a main event anywhere in the world.”[5]
John Cena: A Legendary Feud and Career-Defining Moments
John Cena’s battles with AJ Styles have produced some of the most memorable matches in WWE’s modern era. Their clash at Crown Jewel 2025 was a masterclass in storytelling, athleticism, and drama, with both men trading signature moves and near-falls in front of a raucous crowd[3].
Styles has described Cena as “one of the toughest, smartest opponents I’ve ever faced.” The mutual respect between the two is evident, with Cena often lauding Styles’ ability to adapt and thrive in any environment. After their match at Crown Jewel, sources close to Cena revealed, “John considers AJ one of his greatest rivals. Their matches are always physically demanding and emotionally charged.”
Backstage, Styles was quoted as saying, “You know when you face John Cena, you have to bring your A-game. He’s relentless, and he never gives up. That forces me to dig deeper every single time.”[3]
Rey Mysterio: High-Flying Legends Who Redefine Possibility
Despite their parallel careers and shared reputation as high-flying innovators, AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio have only squared off in singles competition a handful of times. Each encounter has been a showcase of speed, agility, and respect between two icons who have shaped the industry in their own ways[1].
Styles has long admired Mysterio’s contributions to lucha libre and his ability to captivate audiences with breathtaking maneuvers. “Rey’s a legend—simple as that. Wrestling him is like stepping into the ring with history itself,” Styles said during a recent interview.
Many observers believe another Styles versus Mysterio showdown would be a fitting tribute to both men’s legacies. According to a veteran WWE producer, “If AJ’s retirement run includes Rey, it would be a dream match for the ages. They’re two masters, and the chemistry is undeniable.”[1]
CM Punk: Real-Life Tension, Mutual Respect, and Unfinished Business
The story between AJ Styles and CM Punk is layered with real-life tension and professional respect. Their early encounters in Ring of Honor and independent circuits were marked by hungry ambition and a desire to prove themselves. In recent years, however, both have become seasoned veterans, and their interactions have taken on a new significance[1].
At a recent Triple Threat match, Styles and Punk shared a moment of sportsmanship with a handshake in the ring—signaling that past issues may have been put to rest. A singles match between the two in WWE would be about legacy, not just competition. Styles commented backstage, “There’s history there—good and bad. But at this point in our careers, it’s about respect and giving the fans something unforgettable.”[1]
Insiders report that WWE officials see a potential Styles vs. Punk bout as a major draw, especially as both men approach retirement. “Styles and Punk have evolved. A singles match now would be strategic, dramatic, and deeply personal—everything great wrestling should be,” said one WWE executive.
Shinsuke Nakamura: A Rivalry That Deserves a True Classic
AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura’s WWE bouts have often been criticized for not living up to the hype set by their legendary NJPW clash. Both men have expressed a desire to deliver a match worthy of their reputations, suggesting unfinished business and mutual motivation[4].
Styles has called Nakamura “one of the most unique and talented wrestlers in the world,” noting that their chemistry is undeniable when everything clicks. Fans continue to hope for one final, classic encounter between the two as Styles nears his retirement tour.
Looking Ahead: Passing the Torch and Cementing a Legacy
As AJ Styles approaches the final chapters of his career, speculation grows about the ultimate opponents who will help define his legacy. Names like Leon Slater—a rising star in the TNA X-Division—have been mentioned as potential “passing the torch” matches, symbolizing Styles’ enduring impact on the next generation[1].
Styles himself addressed this backstage after a recent TNA appearance: “Facing young talent like Leon reminds me why I started in the first place. It’s about inspiring the future and showing them what’s possible.”
The Phenomenal One’s Enduring Impact
AJ Styles’ list of favorite opponents is a testament to his versatility, competitive spirit, and deep respect for the art of wrestling. Whether battling legends, rivals, or rising stars, Styles elevates every match with intensity and skill. As his retirement run approaches, fans can expect a final series of dream matches—each a celebration of one of wrestling’s true greats.
According to a WWE insider, “AJ’s career isn’t just about titles or accolades—it’s about the quality of his opponents and the stories they tell together. That’s what makes him phenomenal.”
With rumors swirling and excitement building, one thing is certain: the wrestling world eagerly awaits the next—and perhaps final—chapter in AJ Styles’ legendary journey.