WWE’s Return Plans for AJ Styles Could Change Last-Minute for Royal Rumble

AJ Styles might be closer than ever to stepping back into a WWE ring. With Royal Rumble just days away, WWE is reportedly hoping The Phenomenal One gets cleared in time for the big event.

Styles has been out of action for months after suffering a mid-foot ligament sprain during his match against Carmelo Hayes on SmackDown. What was initially a setback turned out to be much worse, as Styles later revealed he was dealing with a Lisfranc injury, a serious condition affecting the bones and ligaments in the middle of the foot.

Earlier reports had previously indicated that WWE was keeping his status under wraps, and Styles himself admitted earlier this month that the recovery process has been anything but easy. However, a new report from PWInsider states that WWE is hoping Styles will be cleared in time for the Rumble—and he’s already scheduled to be in town for the event.

If AJ Styles shows up at the Royal Rumble, the crowd is going to explode—but if he’s still not cleared, fans might have to wait a little longer for The Phenomenal One’s comeback. Either way, WWE knows the value of a surprise return, and with Styles already in town, anything is possible. Will he be a late entrant, or will the Rumble pass without his name being called? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—if he’s in, you’ll know it the second his music hits.

What do you think—should Styles make his return now, or hold off until he’s fully healed? Drop your thoughts below!