Add as a preferred source on Google AJ Styles has once again commented on his WWE run, this time drawing a direct comparison between the company under Vince McMahon and its current era.
On the latest edition of The Phenomenally Retro Podcast, the “Phenomenal One” said he never viewed working for McMahon as an entirely positive or negative experience. For him, the biggest upside was how quickly decisions could be made.
“I liked the fact that if I had a question and needed an immediate answer, I could go to Vince and he would answer me. I appreciated that. One time, I said I was trying to understand him, to know how he felt about something, and he said, ‘Don’t do that. You can’t read me.’”
Styles did acknowledge, however, that the atmosphere was different when Vince was in charge of WWE. According to the veteran, many wrestlers moved around backstage more timidly, while talent today can give opinions and ask questions with more freedom.
The former WWE Champion also mentioned stories involving commentators, saying he had heard about people being pressured during broadcasts. Still, he made it clear he does not know exactly what was said in those situations.
“I don’t think it’s as micromanaged as it was, and that’s a good thing. Vince liked to be on top of every little thing, but that’s almost impossible in a company that big.”
The comments stand out given WWE’s current landscape. Vince McMahon left TKO in January 2024 after the lawsuit filed by Janel Grant, in which he denied all allegations. Since then, Paul “Triple H” Levesque has solidified his role overseeing the company’s creative direction.
Despite criticizing the previous management style, Styles stressed that McMahon gave him a major opportunity in WWE. Styles debuted at the 2016 Royal Rumble and has since won the WWE Championship twice, including one reign that lasted 371 days.
In the end, Styles said he did not have a close personal relationship with Vince, but he recognizes the role McMahon played in his career.
“He was my boss, and he gave me an opportunity. I can appreciate that.”