Former WWE Champion says "things have changed," believes match vs. Roman Reigns is seven years in the making
Roman Reigns may be the most immensely loved heel by WWE fans today, but the company's initial attempts to push him as a babyface received strong backlash. It seems like forever ago when Reigns was the most hated face of the company, perhaps of all time.
Ahead of his World Heavyweight Championship contest at Night of Champions, AJ Styles commented on potentially challenging The Tribal Chief, who is now a different persona. Henceforth, their bout today would be a fresh matchup.
The two legendary stars wrestled at Payback and Extreme Rules back in 2016, with Reigns retaining his world title on both occasions. This was also the first major feud that brought Roman Reigns and The Usos together, who were deemed by WWE as "The Bloodline" from that point on.
“It’s definitely gotten to a point where he and I have to get back in the ring,” Styles said. “It’s a long way from 2016. Things have changed. It would be nice to see that match come back around.” [H/T: New York Post]
AJ Styles with a EPIC Phenomenal Forearm through the announce desk on Roman Reigns - Payback (05.01.2016) https://t.co/jXHoEfYaI2
Fans often fondly look back at the duo's rivalry in 2016, especially their Extreme Rules match at the eponymous premium live event. With both stars now on the blue brand, it could happen sooner rather than later. However, it all depends on the result of Styles' match against Seth "Freakin" Rollins this Saturday night.
You can read more about the two-time WWE Champion potentially winning another championship in 2023 here.
AJ Styles wants to be WWE's "workhorse champion"
The Phenomenal One is ready to become the inaugural World Heavyweight Champion. While he is high on Seth Rollins, the former is not looking at their upcoming battle lightly, as AJ Styles wants to once again take his position as the main event superstar:
“I’ve always kind of been that guy [workhorse],” Styles said. “I enjoy being that guy. I’ve ways wanted to be the guy that we needed. Whether it be Seth or myself, I think we are good representatives of what this championship is all about.”
Styles also hyped his upcoming match against Seth Rollins, albeit the veteran is overwhelmed by all the big fights coming his way after only recently returning from injury:
“The first time I met him he was just a kid,” Styles said. “He is a veteran [now]. He can get in there, he can lead the match, call the match. This guy is exactly who you want in a professional wrestler. He’s the guy you look up to inside and out. He’s a leader.”
AJ Styles and Seth Rollins last faced each other at WWE Money in the Bank 2019, with The Visionary picking up the victory. Meanwhile, you can read more about The Phenomenal One's former rival recounting their "terrible" match here.
Do you think AJ Styles should win the World Heavyweight Championship at Night of Champions? Sound off in the comments section below.