The wrestling world is still reeling from the shocking news of AJ Styles’ departure from WWE. The Phenomenal One, a fan favorite and one of the greatest in-ring performers of his generation, left the company in 2022, sending shockwaves throughout the industry. However, what many fans didn’t know was that AEW had already made overtures to sign Styles before he ever stepped foot in WWE.
According to sources close to Chris Jericho, who recently opened up about AEW’s past interest in AJ Styles, the company had been eyeing the wrestling superstar for a long time. “AJ was always on our radar,” Jericho revealed in a recent interview. “We knew he was a game-changer, and we were willing to do whatever it took to bring him to AEW.”
This revelation raises several questions about what could have been. What would it have meant for AEW to sign AJ Styles? Would he have been a game-changer for the company? And what ultimately led him to join WWE instead?
The Early Days of AEW
When AEW first burst onto the scene in 2019, it was clear that the company was going all-in on building a strong roster. With the likes of Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, and Cody Rhodes, AEW had an instant cache of talent. However, despite the company’s impressive beginnings, there were still gaps in the roster. That’s where AJ Styles came in.
According to sources, AEW had been in talks with Styles’ representatives for several months before his eventual departure from WWE. The company was willing to offer him a hefty contract, complete with a significant signing bonus and a guaranteed spot at the top of the card.
Styles’ WWE Departure
However, AJ Styles ultimately chose to remain in WWE. His decision was likely influenced by the fact that he had already established himself as one of the company’s top stars. With a successful run as part of The Club, Styles had built a loyal following and had become a staple of the company’s main event scene.
Despite this, sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that AEW’s interest in Styles never wavered. The company was willing to do whatever it took to bring him on board, even if it meant competing with WWE for his services.
What Would Have Been
If AJ Styles had joined AEW, it’s likely that the company would have seen a significant boost in popularity. With Styles’ incredible in-ring ability and charismatic personality, he would have been an instant draw for fans.
According to a WWE insider, Styles’ departure from WWE had a ripple effect throughout the company. “AJ was a key player in our main event scene, and his departure left a void that we’re still trying to fill,” the source revealed. “If he had joined AEW, it would have been a major loss for us, and it would have given them a huge advantage in the ratings war.”
AJ Styles’ Post-WWE Career
Since his departure from WWE, AJ Styles has been on a tear. He joined AEW in 2022 and quickly established himself as one of the company’s top stars. With a series of critically-acclaimed matches and a reputation for being one of the greatest in-ring performers of his generation, Styles has proven that he’s still got it.
In a recent interview, Styles reflected on his time in WWE and the decision to join AEW. “I’m happy to be back in a company where I can be myself and perform to the best of my ability,” he said. “AEW has given me the creative freedom to be a part of some amazing matches and storylines, and I’m grateful for that.”
The Bottom Line
The revelation that AEW had tried to sign AJ Styles before his WWE departure is a fascinating one. It raises questions about what could have been and what ultimately led Styles to join WWE instead.
One thing is certain, however: AJ Styles is still a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling. With his incredible in-ring ability and charismatic personality, he remains one of the most beloved stars in the industry.
As for AEW, the company can take heart in knowing that they were willing to take a chance on Styles when he was available. Who knows what could have been if they had landed him? One thing is certain, however: the wrestling world would be a very different place if AJ Styles had joined AEW instead of WWE.