The biggest talking point of the road to WWE Royal Rumble has been the impending debut of AJ Styles. The international icon, former TNA and IWGP heavyweight champion and one of the most celebrated stars of his generation, Styles is one of the most popular wrestlers in the world. His arrival in WWE is understandably a hot topic among fans, most of whom are already envisioning the dream matches that will occur between the Phenomenal One and the top stars in Vince McMahon's promotion. After wrapping up his run in Ring of Honor Saturday night in Duluth, Georgia, Styles is free to make his long-awaited debut in McMahon Land. But will he? The potential exists for him to enter the Royal Rumble, a match that thrives on surprises and the unexpected. He would almost assuredly be one of the favorites to win the match should that happen. At the same time, though, there are no hinted about programs, suggesting that he will not be featured in a major WrestleMania match. That makes a Rumble win less likely and, if that is the case, why even bother wasting the debut there? If the idea is to bring Styles in at the Royal Rumble, do it earlier in the show. Let him introduce himself, maybe lay out someone that he will then engage in a WrestleMania program. But do not waste his star power in a Rumble match where he is likely to be dumped over the top rope like anyone else.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
