AEW Tried To Sign AJ Styles Before His WWE Retirement

Chris Jericho is opening up about AEW’s past interest in AJ Styles, revealing that there was a time when the company seriously looked at bringing “The Phenomenal One” into the promotion.

Speculation about AJ Styles possibly joining AEW picked up earlier this year after he announced his retirement from in-ring competition in WWE. While Styles quickly shut down those rumors, Jericho confirmed that AEW had previously explored the idea of signing him when his WWE contract was nearing expiration. Jericho explained that AEW did make a push at one point and believed Styles would have been a strong addition to the roster.

“There was a time when we were going after him when his contract was up,” Jericho said. “Could he be a good fit? Of course he would be. AJ’s a great performer and a great guy. But there is something to be said for the fact that when you’ve worked in the Vince McMahon system for a long time, you think differently.”

Jericho went on to explain that differences between WWE and AEW’s internal systems can affect how talent adapts when moving between companies. He noted that the way WWE operates often creates a different mindset compared to AEW’s style of running shows and developing talent.

“There are ways WWE runs their company, and there are ways AEW runs theirs,” Jericho continued. “I’m not going to speak for AJ, but I don’t know why you’d retire in one place and then immediately go somewhere else. That said, I’m sure it’s always a possibility.”

Despite the speculation earlier this year, AJ Styles has remained with WWE in a non-wrestling role following his retirement from active competition. He is also set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame during WrestleMania Week in Las Vegas, marking another milestone in his decorated career.

Styles has also launched his own official podcast since stepping away from in-ring competition, keeping him connected to fans even after closing the chapter on his wrestling career.

Do you think AJ Styles would have been a good fit in AEW if he had made the jump, or was staying with WWE always the right move? Share your thoughts below.