In the wake of the monumental announcement that AJ Styles will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026, Cody Rhodes has taken to the media to share his heartfelt thoughts on the legendary performer. In a recent interview, Rhodes spoke candidly about Styles’ immense impact on the professional wrestling landscape, stating that his influence has fundamentally altered the way WWE presents the sport.
Rhodes, who has long been an admirer of Styles’ work, revealed that the latter’s unorthodox style and fearless approach to storytelling have significantly shaped the direction of WWE’s television product. According to the American Nightmare, Styles’ influence can be seen in the way the company approaches high-flying sequences, innovative match types, and even the narrative arcs of its top stars.
“AJ Styles came into the WWE with this incredible energy, and it was infectious,” Rhodes explained. “He not only changed the way we perform, but also the way we think about storytelling in the ring. He pushed the boundaries of what was possible, and that’s had a lasting impact on the entire company.”
Rhodes’ remarks are not surprising, given the profound impact Styles has had on WWE since his debut in 2016. The former TNA and NJPW star brought with him a unique brand of wrestling that emphasized athleticism, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. His fearless approach to in-ring work and bold, unapologetic character have inspired a generation of WWE Superstars, including Rhodes himself.
“Styles’ influence can be seen in the way we approach high-flying sequences, as well as the types of match-ups we create,” Rhodes continued. “He showed us that the impossible was possible, and that’s something we’ve carried forward in our own performances. He’s a true innovator, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.”
Rhodes’ praise for Styles is not only a testament to the latter’s impressive in-ring career but also a reflection of the lasting impact he has had on the WWE universe. Styles’ influence extends beyond the ring, with many of his peers and fellow Superstars citing him as a source of inspiration and motivation.
“Styles’ induction into the WWE Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor,” said a WWE insider. “His contributions to the company go far beyond his impressive in-ring career. He’s helped shape the direction of WWE’s television product, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.”
As Styles looks forward to his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, his legacy will undoubtedly be cemented as one of the greatest Superstars in WWE history. His influence on the company and its performers will continue to be felt for years to come, and his impact on the world of professional wrestling will be remembered for generations to come.
For Rhodes, Styles’ influence extends beyond his own career, with the American Nightmare expressing his gratitude for the lessons he’s learned from his fellow Superstar.
“Styles has been a true mentor to me, and I’m grateful for the lessons he’s taught me about the art of storytelling in the ring,” Rhodes said. “His influence will continue to be felt for years to come, and I’m honored to have had the opportunity to share the ring with him.”
As WWE looks to the future, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for the company? With Styles’ influence now firmly entrenched in the company’s DNA, it will be interesting to see how WWE continues to evolve and grow in the years to come. One thing is certain, however: AJ Styles’ legacy will continue to inspire and motivate a new generation of WWE Superstars, cementing his place as one of the all-time greats.
With Styles set to take his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame, fans around the world will be able to reflect on the incredible impact he’s had on the world of professional wrestling. His legacy will be remembered for generations to come, and his influence will continue to shape the direction of WWE for years to come.
Sources:
- WWE Hall of Fame Inductee AJ Styles to be Honored in 2026
- Cody Rhodes Discusses AJ Styles’ Influence on WWE
- WWE Insider Breaks Down AJ Styles’ Legacy