AJ Styles might be stepping away from in-ring competition in WWE, but discussions about his career there continue to surface. Recently, the story behind one of his most memorable catchphrases being abruptly stopped was revealed.
During an episode of the “Rewind Recap Relive” podcast, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson shared insights about the brief yet hugely popular “Smash John Cena” chant that came from Styles’ 2016 rivalry with Cena. Gallows explained that the chant wasn’t part of WWE’s official plans; instead, the trio came up with it themselves.
“It began and ended organically,” Gallows said. “It lasted only a few weeks but spread like wildfire.”
The trio was so committed to the phrase that they even made their own T-shirts to boost the gimmick’s popularity. However, as quickly as the chant gained momentum, WWE’s management put an end to it.
“I flew back home, grabbed three black T-shirts that weren’t WWE merchandise but said ‘Beat John Cena’ in white and wore them on Raw that Monday. Then Vince called AJ and said, ‘Don’t ever say that again.’ That was the end of it,” Gallows recalled.
Karl Anderson confirmed that the ban came after a member of WWE’s Talent Relations warned them.
“One of the people in TR said Vince declared the phrase off-limits. Sometimes that’s just the politics of being there,” Anderson added.
This story comes amid renewed speculation surrounding AJ Styles’ future. Triple H has made it clear WWE is finished with Styles as an active wrestler but hinted at possible roles behind the scenes, like producing or mentoring within NXT.
Meanwhile, Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp noted that AEW wrestlers have been discussing Styles’ WWE departure backstage, fueling rumors of a potential move.
“Everyone was talking about it backstage at Dynamite last week. It’s definitely a hot topic in AEW,” Sapp said.
Additionally, the recent trademark filings for Mr. Styles’ name and logo suggest that although his wrestling chapter in WWE might be closing, a new phase of his career could be starting. Stories like this highlight the significant impact—and occasional controversy—that Styles and his faction have brought to WWE.
What’s your take on WWE shutting down the “Beat Up John Cena” chant, and do you think AJ Styles could appear in AEW someday? Share your thoughts below.
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Fan Take: This insight into WWE’s control over talent catchphrases shows how creative sparks can sometimes clash with corporate decisions, something any wrestling fan can relate to. With AJ Styles potentially moving to AEW or playing a backstage role, it signals an exciting shift that could reshape storylines and talent dynamics in the industry.
