10 Oldest First-Time WWE World Champions
8. AJ Styles - 39 Years, 3 Months, 9 Days
Though AJ Styles was always considered a phenomenal worker, his decade-plus run in TNA led many to wonder if he'd forever be seen as a big fish in a small pond. When he left the company in late 2013 and headed to New Japan Pro Wrestling, though, he proved he was one of the greatest wrestlers in the sport's history.
After two years (and two IWGP Heavyweight Titles), Styles decided it was time to face the final frontier: WWE. He signed with the company in early 2016 and debuted in the Royal Rumble, stunning elated fans. Though Styles was originally supposed to be a midcard star, the reception he received that evening - as well as during a feud with Chris Jericho - showed the company there was main-event potential there.
Though Styles came up short in a WWE World Championship feud with Roman Reigns, a heel turn and a decisive win over John Cena made him arguably the hottest star in the company. In his first crack at new champion Dean Ambrose, Styles captured the belt, adding another accolade to his title-rich 18-year career.
Styles looks to have a long reign ahead of him, as with his physical capabilities, his age is nothing more than a number.