The Phenomenal One's Future: AJ Styles' Career Trajectory And Potential WWE Exit?
The Phenomenal One's Future: AJ Styles' Career Trajectory and Potential WWE Exit?
AJ Styles, the "Phenomenal One," has captivated wrestling fans for over two decades with his incredible athleticism, captivating charisma, and unparalleled in-ring ability. But at 46, questions loom about his future in WWE. Is retirement on the horizon? Or does Styles have more left to prove in the squared circle? This article delves into the current state of his career, exploring his recent storylines, potential future matches, and the possibility of a transition away from full-time wrestling.
Who is AJ Styles?
Allen Neal Jones (born June 2, 1977), better known by his ring name AJ Styles, is an American professional wrestler signed to WWE, where he performs on the SmackDown brand.
Styles gained prominence in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) from 2002 to 2014, where he won the TNA World Heavyweight Championship twice, the TNA X Division Championship six times, and the TNA World Tag Team Championship seven times. He also worked for promotions such as Ring of Honor (ROH) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).
Styles made his WWE debut in 2016 and quickly established himself as a main event player. He is a two-time WWE Champion, a two-time United States Champion, and a one-time Intercontinental Champion. He also won the SmackDown Tag Team Championship and the Raw Tag Team Championship, making him a Triple Crown Champion and a Grand Slam Champion. Styles is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time.
The Current Landscape: Feuds and Alliances
Styles is currently involved in a compelling storyline on SmackDown. After reuniting with Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson to reform "The OC" (Original Club), he's been locked in a heated rivalry with Finn Balor and The Judgment Day. This feud has delivered several high-octane matches, showcasing Styles' ability to still perform at an elite level. The deeply personal nature of the feud, rooted in their shared history and the lure of Balor wanting Styles to join The Judgment Day, adds layers of drama and intrigue.
Beyond the Balor feud, Styles has also expressed interest in facing emerging talent. He's publicly stated his desire to work with up-and-comers, suggesting a willingness to pass the torch to the next generation. This indicates a potential shift towards a more mentorship-focused role within WWE.
Retirement Rumors and Contract Speculation
While Styles consistently delivers impressive performances, his age inevitably fuels speculation about his retirement. His current WWE contract's expiration date is often a topic of discussion among wrestling fans and industry insiders. Though the exact terms remain confidential, it's widely believed that his current deal extends for at least another year or two.
However, Styles himself has acknowledged the limited timeframe of his wrestling career. In interviews, he's spoken candidly about wanting to spend more time with his family and explore other interests. This suggests that a transition away from full-time wrestling, either through a reduced schedule or outright retirement, is a real possibility in the coming years.
Possible Future Scenarios: Matches and Beyond
Several intriguing scenarios remain possible for AJ Styles within WWE. A dream match against Seth Rollins, a champion versus champion showdown, is a highly anticipated prospect. Another potential rivalry could be with Gunther, the current Intercontinental Champion, pitting Styles' agility and technical prowess against Gunther's brutal power.
Outside of in-ring competition, Styles could transition into a backstage role, utilizing his vast experience and knowledge to mentor younger wrestlers. His understanding of character development, match psychology, and audience engagement would make him a valuable asset to WWE's creative team.
Furthermore, Styles has expressed interest in exploring entrepreneurial ventures outside of wrestling. He co-owns a custom gaming PC business, showcasing his passion for technology. This suggests that his post-wrestling career might involve a blend of business pursuits and occasional appearances within the wrestling world.
Q&A with AJ Styles (Hypothetical)
To provide a more personal perspective, here's a hypothetical Q&A with AJ Styles:
Q: AJ, you've had an incredible career. What motivates you to keep performing at such a high level?
A: The fans, plain and simple. Hearing that crowd roar, feeling that energy, it's what drives me. Plus, I love this business. I love challenging myself, pushing my limits, and putting on a show.
Q: The feud with Finn Balor and The Judgment Day has been intense. What's it like working with Finn again after so many years?
A: Finn's an incredibly talented guy. We have a lot of history together, and that makes the matches even more personal. It's a blast working with him, even if we're trying to tear each other apart in the ring!
Q: Retirement rumors are always swirling. How much longer do you see yourself wrestling full-time?
A: That's a tough question. I take it one day at a time. I want to wrestle as long as I can still contribute and perform at the level I expect of myself. Family is always the priority, so I'll make that decision when the time is right.
Q: What's next for AJ Styles? Any dream matches you still want to have?
A: I want to work with the best, past, present, and future. Seth Rollins is definitely on my radar. Gunther, too. There are so many talented guys coming up, and I want to help them however I can.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Phenomenal One
Regardless of when he decides to hang up his boots, AJ Styles has already cemented his place as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. His athleticism, charisma, and dedication to the craft have earned him the respect of his peers and the adoration of fans worldwide. Whether he continues to compete at the highest level, mentors the next generation, or explores new ventures, the "Phenomenal One" will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.
Summary Question and Answer:
- Q: What is the current situation of AJ Styles' career in WWE? A: He's involved in a storyline with The Judgment Day, particularly Finn Balor, and has expressed interest in mentoring younger wrestlers.
- Q: What are the potential future scenarios for AJ Styles? A: He could have dream matches with Seth Rollins or Gunther, transition into a backstage role, or pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
- Q: Is retirement a possibility? A: Yes, Styles has acknowledged his age and the desire to spend more time with his family, making retirement or a reduced schedule a likely option in the future.
Keywords: AJ Styles, WWE, Finn Balor, The Judgment Day, Retirement, Seth Rollins, Gunther, Career, Rumors, Contract, Wrestling, Phenomenal One, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson, The OC, Original Club, Interview, Speculation, Championship, Dream Match, Mentor, Backstage Role, Post-Wrestling Career, Allen Neal Jones.