Here’s Why AJ Styles Isn’t Appearing on SmackDown Live Tonight

AJ Styles lost the WWE Championship to Daniel Bryan last week on SmackDown Live. It was a major surprise for a lot of fans and left The Phenomenal One as a healthy scratch for Survivor Series. Simultaneously, a new rumor has come to light that Styles has been negotiating with WWE officials on a new contract and their talks aren’t going very well.

The expectation is Styles will be receiving his rematch for the WWE Championship very soon. With Daniel Bryan emerging as a heel after Survivor Series, the feud between AJ and Bryan is important heading into 2019. However, WWE officials are not expected to resume their program tonight on SmackDown Live since Styles won’t be on the show.

Related: WWE Having Major Issues Negotiating New Contract With AJ Styles

According to a new report from RingSideNews, Joe Peisich of the Barnburner’s No Holds Barred podcast has been told that The Phenomenal One has been given the week off. It’s Thanksgiving weekend and Styles wasn’t backstage during Sunday’s PPV. WWE officials could be giving him the full holiday off to be with his family during their negotiations.

With his contract set to expire at the end of 2018, the powers that be may not be willing to book him for anything important if he’s leaving the company. The word on the street is Styles is seeking a Randy Orton deal with a limited schedule and much more time at home. There’s also been some discussion about the number of years AJ wants to work.

AJ Styles reveals Vince McMahon's expectations of him when he joined WWE (WWE Network Exclusive)

After a year-long run with the WWE Championship, The Phenomenal One is riding the high of his career. There’s still plenty for him to do with the company and it’ll be up to him regarding the future of his wrestling career. He’s earned the right to set the price.

Should AJ Styles re-sign with WWE or leave?