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A retirement to be on the horizon; Massive feuds? — 5 Reasons why AJ Styles returned to WWE as babyface 

AJ Styles made his much-awaited return on SmackDown this week after being away from WWE television for four months. However, his comeback saw a devastating turn as The Phenomenal One suffered an unfortunate injury during his match with Carmelo Hayes. Apart from the tragedy, what remained a talking point was that Styles returned to WWE as a babyface.

This is indeed a massive move from the Stamford-based promotion, which may have underlying implications. There is a good possibility that Styles' babyface turn could be the harbinger of his potential retirement. However, there are also chances that WWE may have carried out that move to set up some dream feuds and rivalries on SmackDown.

Below are five possible reasons why AJ Styles returned to WWE as a babyface.


#5. For a fresh beginning on the roster

AJ Styles has had quite a few incredible feuds during his heel run on SmackDown, which include his rivalries with LA Knight and Cody Rhodes. However, the former WWE Champion has struggled to get victories in his matches during that stint, as he faced setback after setback every time.

Therefore, Styles returned to WWE as a babyface for a fresh beginning on the roster. It would herald a new chapter in his illustrious career, providing a much-needed rest after his recent setback at Clash at the Castle 2024. A change in character has the potential to revitalize his current run.

It will give him a fresh start on SmackDown, which he desperately needs to begin his current run after his return to the blue brand.


#4. To elevate the current heels on WWE SmackDown

The current SmackDown roster is stacked with several heels ranging from youngsters to veterans. It includes names such as Grayson Waller, Carmelo Hayes, Santos Escobar, Giovanni Vinci, and more. Therefore, one of the major reasons AJ Styles returned as a babyface is to elevate those superstars.

A feud with The Phenomenal One will help those superstars receive a fair share of the spotlight and bolster them as credible heels on the main roster. Moreover, Styles' babyface run has opened the doors for several intriguing feuds and storylines on SmackDown, paving the way for heel vs. babyface feuds.

Moreover, the former WWE Champion could play a pivotal role in shaping future talents with his sheer experience and star power.


#3. For AJ Styles' redemption arc

During his run as a heel, AJ Styles did several despicable things, whether it be mocking fans or invading LA Knight's home. He also played with the emotions of fans, faking his retirement and using underhanded tactics to get a shot at Cody Rhodes' Undisputed WWE Championship. His ruthless pursuit of power knew no bounds.

Hence, The Phenomenal One may have returned as a babyface to right the wrongs and seek redemption for past transgressions. His heel persona's destructive path left scars, and now he is on a mission to make amends. By embracing his babyface persona, Styles acknowledged the harm caused by his previous actions.

Therefore, the 47-year-old star took the first step towards rebuilding trust within the WWE Universe which gave him a heroic welcome.


#2. Fans have been clamoring for it

AJ Styles' highly anticipated babyface turn is seemingly a testament to the power of fans' demand. The WWE Universe has been clamoring for this for quite some time, especially due to Styles' recent setbacks. His prolonged heel run marked by constant losses led to stagnation.

Hence, a majority of fans wanted WWE to revive his babyface persona and give him a massive push. Therefore, the creative team, which is known to listen to fans, may have finally heard the voices of the WWE Universe. The desire of fans may have worked as the catalyst for AJ Styles' babyface turn.

A change in character for the 47-year-old star will give fans fresh things to tune into on SmackDown upon his highly anticipated return.


#1. To end AJ Styles' career on a high note

AJ Styles is one of the biggest stars in WWE with a legendary career. However, his pro wrestling career seems to be in his last chapter, as he could be nearing his retirement. With the reports of Styles' contract expiring by the end of this year, this could be his last stint with the Stamford-based promotion.

Therefore, The Phenomenal One may have returned as a babyface to end his WWE career on a high note. The 47-year-old star seemingly wants to enjoy his last ride as a beloved fan-favorite and leave an indelible mark on the WWE Universe. He could be determined to deliver stupendous things for fans, which will be etched in their hearts.

AJ Styles' return as a babyface could be the harbinger of his potential retirement. Hence, he seemingly wanted to reconnect with fans as a beloved superstar, igniting nostalgia and delivering some dream matches in WWE before he hung up his boots.


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