In a recent interview, Chris Jericho shed light on All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) attempts to sign AJ Styles before his eventual WWE retirement. The revelation offers a fascinating perspective on the behind-the-scenes machinations that shape the professional wrestling landscape.
AEW’s Interest in AJ Styles: A Serious Pursuit
According to Jericho, AEW’s interest in AJ Styles was more than just a casual inquiry. The company seriously considered bringing the legendary wrestler into the fold, with Jericho stating, “They were very interested in AJ, and they were willing to make a big offer to get him.” This level of interest speaks to the high esteem in which AJ Styles is held within the wrestling community, as well as the ambition of AEW to attract top talent.
The What-Ifs of AJ Styles in AEW
Had AJ Styles joined AEW, it’s likely that his presence would have significantly impacted the company’s trajectory. Styles’ incredible in-ring abilities and charismatic persona would have undoubtedly made him a fan favorite among AEW’s audience. Moreover, his joining the company would have created a fascinating dynamic, potentially pitting him against AEW’s top stars, including Chris Jericho himself.
WWE’s Stance on AJ Styles’ Departure
While AJ Styles has since retired from full-time competition, his eventual departure from WWE was a significant blow to the company. Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that WWE’s upper management was keenly aware of AEW’s interest in Styles, which may have played a role in their efforts to retain him. However, ultimately, Styles’ desire to step away from the grind of touring and competing on a regular basis led to his decision to leave WWE.
The Impact of AJ Styles on AEW’s Current Landscape
Fast-forward to the present, and AEW’s roster boasts an impressive array of talent, including top stars like Kenny Omega, CM Punk, and Jon Moxley. While AJ Styles is no longer a part of the AEW roster, his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of wrestlers. The question remains, however, whether AEW’s current landscape would have been altered had Styles joined the company in the first place.
Backstage Reaction to AJ Styles’ Potential AEW Debut
According to a WWE insider, the news of AJ Styles’ potential AEW debut would have sent shockwaves throughout the WWE locker room. “Guys were talking about it for weeks, speculating about what it would mean for AJ’s career,” the source revealed. “Some were worried that it would be a huge loss for WWE, while others felt that it would be a great opportunity for AJ to explore new possibilities.”
The Future of AJ Styles: Retirement or a Comeback?
While AJ Styles has officially retired from full-time competition, there’s always a chance that he could return to the ring in some capacity. As one wrestling insider noted, “AJ’s a wrestler at heart, and you never know what the future holds. If he does decide to come back, you can bet that AEW will be one of the companies he’ll be considering.”
Conclusion
The revelation that AEW seriously considered signing AJ Styles before his WWE retirement offers a fascinating glimpse into the what-ifs of wrestling history. While we’ll never know for certain how things would have played out, one thing is clear: AJ Styles’ impact on the wrestling world would have been profound had he joined AEW. As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities that could arise in the future.