10 Wrestlers Who Turned Down WWE Contracts

When AJ Styles set the wrestling world alight with his Royal Rumble 2016 debut, it was phenomenal because of the sea-change in WWE philosophy it represented. Here was a man whose entire prestige had been built outwith the company, being promoted opposite de facto top babyface Roman Reigns as a global superstar. In many ways, it was his status as the independent scene's top dog which made him so special.

Things could have been very, very different if not for the peculiarities of fate. Styles was part of WCW's roster when WWE bought the company out in 2001, and although he had evident promise, the Georgian was still an absolute rookie with no cache. His contract wasn't picked up, though a year on, WWE offered him a $500-per-week developmental deal, which'd necessitate a move to Ohio's Heartland Wrestling Association. Whilst it was a fantastic opportunity for the budding star's career, he selflessly rejected it so his wife could continue her college education - though it also helped that his independent dates were already matching the offer.

Later in 2002, a disguisedly bigger opportunity came along. NWA:TNA formed, and Styles was quickly installed as its first breakout stars.