WWE is Reportedly Interested in AJ Styles Now

According to Dave Meltzer of F4Wonline.com, WWE is reportedly interested in AJ Styles now, where as in 2013 and 2014, they were not. As previously reported, Styles talked with WWE officials upon his exile from TNA Wrestling before settling in New Japan Pro Wrestling. However, WWE and Styles could not come to terms on a deal, and Styles left for what some might say were greener pastures for the reigning IWGP Heavyweight Champion.

Meltzer goes on to discuss WWE’s change of heart on Styles and whether or not he’d be a good investment for them. He writes,

“This isn’t to say anything will transpire, but WWE has greatly changed its thoughts on A.J. Styles. Styles considers New Japan home right now and is under contract. But WWE is, with wanting three touring brands next year, is looking to load up on as much quality talent as it can for 2016.

Styles fits into the NXT philosophy in wanting athletic wrestling catering to a specific fan base, and as a separate brand with a part-time deal, the idea of someone 38 or so in developmental is a completely different dynamic than a year ago. The other advantage, and this is significant, is NXT works a lighter style for the most part.

The idea that guys who are feeling the effects from years working the blow away matches on the indie scene or in Japan will be able to, at least in theory, use the names they’ve developed in the hardcore community but be able to work like Finn Balor does, which is good matches, getting over by rep, goodwill and solid work, without beating their bodies up as badly.

With Styles it may be a financial thing in the sense he’s probably making three to four times what anyone in NXT is pulling in, and he has more time home with his family than he’d have with a full-time WWE or NXT deal. So unless it’s something like come in for a quick program between Japan tours, the idea of going full-time here makes no sense for either side unless it’s a main roster spot with a good push.”

Editor’s Note:

Can you imagine if Kevin Owens had AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Finn Bálor, Hideo Itami, and more to work with in NXT. Styles vs. Bálor as the two leaders of the Bullet Club (former vs. current) would be awesome. Styles in NXT would be awesome, but he’s in Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling. I doubt we’ll see him in NXT anytime soon. He’s making bank as the top Indy guy right now.