New footage has emerged of AJ Styles speaking about his previous time in Japan, and how it became a catalyst for his shock WWE debut shortly afterwards.
The company recently hosted 2 live events in Japan after finishing up in Australia with Crown Jewel, Raw and SmackDown tapings, and non-televised events. During the latest international tour, cameras caught with Styles as part of the latest vlog, who spoke about the admiration he received from the fans overseas:
“I felt so much love here in Japan for everything that I’ve done here. I don’t know where or would’ve even been in WWE if it wasn’t for Japan. So just as long as they know that I appreciate them as much as they appreciate me, if not more.”
Styles competed in 2 matches at the Japanese Premium Live Events. The first match saw The Phenomenal One emerge victorious over El Grande Americano and Ivar. The following night, Styles defeated Kofi Kingston, with footage of the latter being included in the recap.
The video then cut to CM Punk and Shinsuke Nakamura, who competed in the main event. After speaking about what Japan also means to him, Punk invited Styles out to the ring once more.
Nakamura, who has had many battles over the years with Styles both in New Japan and in WWE, was given a promo to read in Japanese on Styles’ behalf, in which the following was said:
“Everyone, as you all know, when I first came to Japan, to be honest, I didn’t know what people expected from me or if someone like me would even be accepted here. But from the very first day, you welcomed me with respect and passion. Every time I passed through the curtain to the ring in Japan, I gave everything I had because I felt you all were worthy of it. In return, you gave me something I will never forget: trust, energy, and love for professional wrestling. Maybe one day I’ll leave this ring, but a part of my heart will always remain here, in the hearts of the Japanese people and in each and every one of you. Thank you.”
Prior to making his shock debut in WWE at the 2016 Royal Rumble, Styles was signed to New Japan, where he captured the IWGP World Championship while with the promotion.
WWE Star AJ Styles Likely Done In Japan
As Styles previously stated that he would retire in 2026, which has since been brought up numerous times on commentary, the recent Japanese tour might be the last time that the former WWE Champion competes in the country. There has currently been no indication as to when The Phenomenal One’s final match will be.
H/t to F4WOnline for the use of transcriptions.
Featured image: WWE
