AJ Styles’ WWE Contract Status Raises Questions as Injury Delays Return

AJ Styles is facing a tough road ahead, as his return to WWE in late 2024 was derailed by injury—and now, questions about his contract status are swirling.

During his much-anticipated comeback on the October 4, 2024, episode of WWE SmackDown, Styles squared off against Carmelo Hayes but suffered a Lisfranc injury, forcing the match to end abruptly. The setback couldn’t have come at a worse time for “The Phenomenal One,” who had been off WWE television for months before the match.

On January 10, 2025, a fan asked Styles for an update on his recovery and return. Styles didn’t sugarcoat his response, tweeting, “I’ll be honest, this injury is challenging.” His honesty gave fans a rare glimpse into his current mindset as he pushes through rehab for the severe foot injury.

Adding to the uncertainty, Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select addressed Styles’ WWE contract status during a recent Q&A session. According to Sapp, the belief has been that Styles’ contract was coming up soon, but with the injury, WWE could potentially extend his deal. While nothing has been confirmed, the possibility of WWE adding time due to his time off raises even more questions about his future.

Styles’ last official match took place on August 29, 2024, during WWE’s Road to Bash in Berlin tour, where he challenged Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship in Frankfurt. He was then given the entire month of September off before returning for the Carmelo Hayes match that led to his injury.

With no official timetable for his return, Styles’ next move remains a mystery. WWE has lost a few top stars in recent months, including Bobby Lashley and Ricochet. Could Styles be the next big name to test free agency, or will WWE lock him into another long-term deal?

Ringside News will keep you updated on AJ Styles’ injury recovery and contract status as more details emerge.