Several major WWE stars are currently absent from the Stamford-based promotion. One prominent name on hiatus is former Intercontinental Champion AJ Styles. The Phenomenal One last wrestled on the April 10, 2024, episode of SmackDown, where his match against Carmelo Hayes ended via referee's decision due to a potential real-life injury suffered by Styles.
Amid this absence, the veteran has posted a cryptic message on his official Instagram account, sparking speculation about his next potential storyline. The 47-year-old star shared a post with the phrase "Rage Quit," which fans have interpreted in various ways.
One possibility is that it reflects his well-known love for gaming. Styles has often been seen raging and throwing controllers during episodes of UpUpDownDown after losing to opponents. However, some fans believe the cryptic post might hint at Styles' upcoming storyline angle. It’s speculated that The Phenomenal One might tease quitting WWE as part of a storyline upon his return.
This could be framed around his frustration with recent injuries, aiming to generate massive buzz for his comeback. Ultimately, the angle could lead to a major push for AJ Styles, reestablishing him as a dominant figure in the Stamford-based promotion. This approach seems like an ideal way to reintroduce Styles as a stronger star.
However, it remains to be seen how events unfold in the coming months and when The Phenomenal One makes his return following his injury.
One of the potential decisions WWE might make regarding AJ Styles' future is moving him to RAW in 2025 utilizing the transfer window. The Phenomenal One is currently part of Friday Night SmackDown, but the recent concept of a transfer window allows superstars to move from one brand to another.
To provide fresh storylines for the veteran, moving him to the red brand could be a great decision to explore. Additionally, WWE RAW's move to Netflix is expected to attract a larger audience. Several major names are rumored to be transferred to the red brand upon its Netflix debut.
With this in mind, AJ Styles' presence on RAW would open up many exciting opportunities and potential new feuds, allowing WWE to book him in more compelling storylines.
It will be interesting to see if Triple H decides to move Styles from SmackDown amid the transfer window and utilize the veteran on RAW on Netflix.