AJ Styles took a major trip down memory lane during his entrance on WWE Saturday Night Main Event. For the first time since his New Japan Pro Wrestling days, Styles donned a mask, a move that instantly caught the attention of longtime followers. Commentator Michael Cole highlighted this throwback, emphasizing that Styles hasn’t worn a mask since departing New Japan.
Earlier that day, Styles had teased a fresh set of ring gear for his bout against Shinsuke Nakamura, originally designed for the Royal Rumble. While that hinted at something special, the addition of the mask brought an unexpected wave of nostalgia and intensity to the match.
Fans who have followed Styles’ tenure in New Japan will recognize the masked entrance as a hallmark from his Bullet Club era. With retirement rumors in the air, this nod to his past added a sense of finality and a full-circle moment to his face-off with Nakamura.
Do you think this mask signals Styles’ retirement, or was it simply a meaningful tribute to his beginnings? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Fan Take: This surprise throwback is more than just a visual treat—it reconnects WWE fans with a pivotal chapter of AJ Styles’ career, deepening the emotional stakes of his current journey. Whether signaling the end of an era or celebrating his legacy, moments like this enrich the storytelling that makes pro wrestling so compelling.
