WWE Want To Sign AJ Styles

WWE officials may be interested in signing current IWGP Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles. According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer, WWE has interest because they want to have three touring brands towards the end of this year and into 2016 (two for main roster, one for NXT), so they want all the big names they can get. That doesn't mean it is imminent, but it is at least something that is being mentioned internally enough that Meltzer thought it was worth sharing. Styles is 38 years old and made a name for himself working for TNA Wrestling from 2002 to 2013. He was arguably the biggest star that TNA produced and also considered one of the best wrestlers of the last 15 years. He's had success everywhere he's gone from TNA to Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling where he's their Heavyweight Champion. When he was free in early 2014, WWE really didn't pursue him that hard most likely because of his age. It seems like he got out of TNA at the right time because they're spiraling out of control while his career is as hot as ever. In addition to working for New Japan, he also works for Ring of Honor and they just signed the Destination America deal, so there will be a bigger spotlight on him again. There's no telling what kind of offer WWE would or could give him if he's willing to listen. He's such an experienced performer that that he obviously doesn't need to be signed to a deal that sees him train at the Performance Center. However, WWE could sign him to a deal similar to Samoa Joe where he works on NXT at the start and then they can figure it out from there. If WWE is going to do NXT live events regularly, they need some more star power and they are right to go after Styles. From his point of view, he may not content with just being a NXT superstar. He may want to be on Raw, Smackdown, WWE PPVs and eventually a WrestleMania. That's where every wrestler wants to be and if they deny it they're probably lying. Money would be a big factor. Styles is making good money as a main eventer in New Japan, who are currently doing great business consistently and putting on outstanding shows too. Ring of Honor likely doesn't pay close to what NJPW does, but when you add in all the indies he does nearly every weekend it's clear that he's doing pretty well. It's a smart business move for WWE to pursue Styles. He's an amazing talent that is one of the best wrestlers in the world. He's not just an asset because of what he can do in the ring, but he can also help younger guys improve because nobody has a bad match with him. Would WWE let him use his Styles Clash finishing move that has led to some neck injuries for wrestlers in recent years including former WWE star Yoshi Tatsu? Probably not, but they can figure that out if he signs. For now, it's just a really hot rumour that hopefully turns into a reality one day soon.