Recently, AJ worked a featured bout at Wrestle Kingdom 10 opposite Shinsuke Nakamura. The Japanese wrestler himself is also linked with a move to WWE, and the pair put forth a well-received match for the IWGP Intercontinental Title. Since moving to Japan, AJ has recaptured some of the in-ring magic he seemed to have lost since working for TNA. It wasn't only with the direction of the company that Styles seemed unsure of, he also changed up his style (no pun intended) towards the end of his run. Portraying a lone wolf style character, it was clear that the guy was still reeling from years of misuse by management. TNA wanted AJ on the roster, but didn't really have many ideas that fitted in with his character. Ever since, gigs with Ring Of Honor and New Japan have served to revitalise Styles. Not only has he worked well against Nakamura, but his IWGP Heavyweight Title loss to Hiroshi Tanahashi at King Of Pro-Wrestling in October, 2014 was blistering. It seems WWE are signing Styles at the right time, he has his mojo once again.
Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.
