AJ Francis Delivers AJ Styles Bait-and-Switch and Throws Major Shade

AJ Francis and KC Navarro kicked off the season premiere of FIR$T CLA$ Penthouse during the February 20 episode of TNA iMPACT! Live—but not without a little bait and switch.

Francis had the audience on the edge of their seats as he hyped up a “phenomenal” guest, dropping hints that had fans expecting none other than AJ Styles. But when the big reveal came, it wasn’t AJ Styles at all—it was AJ Francis himself.

Taking full advantage of the moment, Francis addressed the elephant in the room. “That other guy left TNA to make money at the other place, while I left the other place to save TNA,” he declared, making it clear he wasn’t afraid to throw some shade.

The episode also featured a mix of social media influencers, a throwback Bob Saget TikTok clip, and plenty of over-the-top antics to set the tone for FIR$T CLA$ Penthouse.

With AJ Francis making his presence felt in TNA, could he be setting himself up for an even bigger role? What do you think about his shot at AJ Styles? Drop your thoughts below!