AJ Francis openly acknowledges his impact on the wrestling industry and has expressed to WWE that while he has gained from his efforts, he hasn’t received the same appreciation in return. During a June 2025 interview with WhatCulture Wrestling, the ex-WWE wrestler discussed his current collaboration with NXT and TNA and whether a WWE comeback is possible. He indicated that although the opportunity might exist, he hasn’t made any moves to pursue it.
Francis admitted that he hasn’t actively sought a WWE return since joining NXT, highlighting that WWE still overlooks him even as they continue to sign and feature many of the same wrestlers he helped promote—specifically mentioning Joe Hendry, who he believes supported Francis’s progression through TNA previously.
He remarked, “Yeah, I want to go to NXT, but they know my number. They knew my number when they fired me twice, so it’s not like they don’t know where I am.” He further added, “They found a way to book everyone I won, they find a way to book everyone I made a star.”
This statement seems like a pointed critique of WWE recruiting talent who have built momentum in promotions such as TNA. Rather than expressing bitterness, Francis focuses on the reality that he creates stars while others benefit financially from their success.
Francis has always been candid, and this recent comment shows he hasn’t forgotten how WWE treated him. Still, he acknowledges that his influence is still recognized through the accomplishments of those he helped elevate.
Fan Take: This insight from AJ Francis reveals an ongoing dynamic where talent development isn’t always fairly rewarded in WWE, something fans should watch closely as it reflects broader industry practices. It also suggests potential shifts in wrestling rosters, where nurtured wrestlers might influence future storylines and company relations.
