4 reasons why AJ Styles hasn't returned to WWE despite being advertised
AJ Styles has been away from WWE television for quite some time. His last appearance came at Clash at the Castle 2024, where he suffered a heartbreaking defeat against Cody Rhodes in an 'I Quit' Match. In the aftermath of that fateful night, Styles disappeared into the shadows. Neither did he return at SummerSlam 2024, nor did he show up after that.
Even though he was advertised for the August 9 episode of SmackDown, he was nowhere to be seen. Moreover, the WWE Universe was anticipating his homecoming on the go-home of the blue brand for Bash in Berlin, which did not happen either. This has led to a whirpool of speculation among fans as to why The Phenomenal One hasn't come back yet.
Let's look at four reasons why AJ Styles hasn't returned to WWE despite being advertised.
#4. To sell his defeat in the 'I Quit' Match against Cody Rhodes
One of the probable reasons why AJ Styles hasn't returned yet is that he is still reeling from the devastating aftermath of Clash at the Castle. The veteran superstar may be consumed by the crushing weight of his defeat against Cody Rhodes, as he had to utter 'I Quit' in the Undisputed WWE Championship match.
The bitter taste of defeat in an 'I Quit' match can be a crushing blow to a wrestler's pride as it brings embarrassment, and Styles could be no different. Besides, it was his second shot at Rhodes' Undisputed WWE Championship, and he still could not get the job done despite his best efforts.
Hence, The Phenomenal One could be taking time to process the emotional fallout and to accept the harsh reality of his loss. He may be overwhelmed by the burden of his defeat and is crestfallen, which could be the reason why he is still on hiatus.
#3. Unavailability of top stars on SmackDown
The SmackDown roster boasts a wide array of superstars with legends and veterans. However, all the top stars are currently embroiled in their respective rivalries, be it Kevin Owens or LA Knight. On the other hand, AJ Styles would demand a high-profile match and a formidable opponent upon his return.
With the top stars on SmackDown engaged in their respective rivalries, there might not be a suitable opponent for The Phenomenal One to face upon his return. Therefore, WWE might be reluctant to bring him back without a compelling storyline or feud to insert him into, which could lead to a lackluster return.
Hence, the Triple H-led creative could be looking for the right opportunity to bring the former WWE Champion back on SmackDown.
#2. AJ Styles may be recuperating
Another potential reason AJ Styles has not returned to SmackDown yet, despite being advertised, is that he could be recuperating from in-ring exertion. Despite being 47 years old, The Phenomenal One has been constantly competing in the ring and delivering classic matches day in and day out.
Therefore, he may have taken a considerable break from WWE programming to recover from minor injuries and in-ring fatigue, though he has been competing in live events. A break from weekly shows would allow AJ Styles to recharge, rejuvenate, and revitalize his body in the meantime.
Hence, the former WWE Champion could be prioritizing his health, as his body might have taken a toll due to his high-octane in-ring style and aerial assaults, which he has been performing for a while now.
#1. WWE may be saving him for the SmackDown Season Premiere
One of the biggest reasons why AJ Styles has not yet returned to television is that WWE could be saving it for a monumental moment. With the upcoming edition of the blue brand being the Season Premiere, it will be a historic night for the Stamford-based promotion as SmackDown moves to USA Network.
This could be the very night for which WWE might be keeping Styles' return on hold. His highly anticipated homecoming will garner a huge buzz and add grandeur to the spectacular night, which will mark the beginning of a new era for SmackDown. Hence, it could indeed be the perfect moment to capitalize on a return of this magnitude.
It will be interesting to see whether the WWE Universe gets to behold the much-awaited homecoming of AJ Styles on the Season Premiere of SmackDown.