AEW’s Kenny Omega recently acknowledged the significant impact WWE star AJ Styles has had on his wrestling career. Omega opened up about how Styles influenced him in various ways, particularly when Omega was feeling disheartened about wrestling during his early days in WWE’s developmental scene. He recalled contemplating retirement but found renewed inspiration after a match against Styles in the indie promotion PCW. During that match, the chemistry between them reignited Omega’s passion, making him realize he wanted to continue pursuing wrestling at a higher level.
Omega also spoke about working alongside Styles in New Japan Pro Wrestling, where he admired Styles’ qualities and aspired to reach the champion status Styles had achieved. Styles even allowed Omega to be part of a match against Kota Ibushi, which helped revive the popular Golden Lover storyline. Interestingly, Omega credits Styles with indirectly influencing the creation of AEW. After Omega and the Young Bucks turned on Styles during his exit to WWE, Styles’ reaction and understanding helped spark a chain of events that eventually led to the founding of AEW. Although Styles is now considering retirement from WWE, a potential reunion with his former Bullet Club allies in AEW is not expected.
Fan Take: This news is significant for WWE fans as it highlights the interconnected journeys of top wrestling talents and shows how rivalries and alliances shape the industry behind the scenes. Omega’s respect for Styles underscores the impact one wrestler can have on another’s career, while the origin story of AEW reminds fans how changing dynamics can lead to new opportunities and innovation in professional wrestling.
