AJ Styles doesn’t want to hear that WWE Clash in Italy feels like an episode of RAW just because the card has five matches
While speaking on the Phenomenally Retro Podcast, Styles strongly pushed back after someone claimed a five-match Premium Live Event is not a real pay-per-view and feels more like an episode of Raw. Clash in Italy features a tight card with major matches, including Roman Reigns vs. Jacob Fatu, Cody Rhodes vs. GUNTHER, and more. Styles made it clear he thinks that complaint is completely wrong.
“Someone said five matches is not a pay-per-view, it’s an episode of Raw with extra steps. How wrong you are. How wrong. There’s no commercial breaks, right? We’re not going to have to see those. Will there be commercials? Yes—but they’re not a break during the show.”
Styles then told anyone upset about the match count that they do not have to watch the show. The WWE Hall of Famer also stated that he believes Clash in Italy will deliver, but fans will only know that by actually watching it.
“So listen—if you’re upset about this show and you’re mad that they only have five matches and it’s more of a Raw to you, then dude, don’t watch it. I think it’s going to be a fantastic show, but the only way you’re going to know is to watch it and find out for yourself.”
Styles also said there are several matches on the card that he personally wants to see, and he believes plenty of others feel the same way. He also decided to take one more shot at the negativity around the show
“I think there are a lot of great matches on the card that I want to see—and I know a lot of other people want to see. So you can be negative and boo-faced all you want, but I think it’s going to be a great show.”
WWE has leaned into shorter Premium Live Event cards in recent years, with the idea being that fewer matches can give each bout more time to breathe. Still, that has not stopped debates whenever a major show features only a handful of matches.
For Styles, the number of matches is not the issue. His point is simple: Clash in Italy has major names, major matchups, and no traditional TV-style commercial breaks cutting through the action. Whether fans agree or not, he clearly believes the show deserves a chance before people write it off.
Do you agree with AJ Styles that five matches can still make a strong Premium Live Event, or do you think WWE should book bigger cards? Sound off in the comments and let us know what you think.
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