AJ Styles Clarifies Comments On Wanting WWE To Buy A Japanese Company

AJ Styles says his recent comments had nothing to do with WWE buying NJPW.

Last week, AJ Styles expressed his desire for WWE to purchase a Japanese wrestling promotion, similar to the company’s acquisition of AAA in Mexico in 2025. The comments sparked criticism from some fans, although Styles has since addressed the reaction, stating that his remarks were misinterpreted.

Speaking on his Phenomenally Retro Podcast, Styles clarified that he did not imply that WWE should buy New Japan Pro-Wrestling and emphasised the respect he has for Hiroshi Tanahashi.

“Did I ever say New Japan Pro Wrestling? I can’t remember. Just a Japanese company. That’s more what I was alluding to. People are like, ‘Oh, Tanahashi.’ There ain’t but one Tanahashi and the fact that Japan came out and supported him the way that it did says a lot about that country because he’s definitely one of my favorite guys in the wrestling business. Just a heart of gold. So just so you know, I’m not disrespecting my friend, by the way, Tanahashi. You don’t know him like I do. I promise you. I would never disrespect that guy. But, you know. People are gonna say what they say because they think they know everything about wrestling.”

-AJ Styles

WWE are no strangers to investing in wrestling companies outside of the United States. Beyond their purchase of AAA in 2025, the company has established relationships with NOAH in Japan and UK promotions such as Progress Wrestling and ICW, dating back to 2016. Domestically, WWE have also developed a notable working relationship with TNA in recent years.

Prior to signing with WWE in 2016, AJ Styles was best known for his work in TNA, NJPW, and ROH. During his time with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Styles became a two-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and led Bullet Club as the faction’s popularity continued to skyrocket.

Before retiring in January of this year, Styles remained a major part of WWE programming, becoming a two-time WWE Champion among numerous other accolades. During his WWE run, he also made a special appearance in Japan, facing Naomichi Marufuji in a singles match at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s Destination event in 2024. Since stepping away from in-ring competition, Styles has transitioned into a talent scouting role for WWE.

On the topic of New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Hiroshi Tanahashi, NJPW’s President recently provided an insight into his ideal professional wrestler. You can read more about that here.

As always, we’ll aim to provide any updates on the possibility of WWE purchasing a Japanese promotion and the future of NJPW as soon as we hear more.

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