AJ Styles Thinks NJPW Star Would Have Excelled In WWE

AJ Styles has heaped praise on a former rival.

Back in October 2024, Hiroshi Tanahashi announced that he’ll officially retire from in-ring action following Wrestle Kingdom on January 4, 2026.

The Ace trained at the famous NJPW dojo before making his debut in October 1999 and going on to become a permanent fixture in the main event, winning championship gold at every turn.

Before he arrived in WWE, AJ Styles had several memorable battles with Tanahashi, and he’s got no doubt that his former rival would also have found success if he followed a similar path.

In a new interview with Tokyo Sports, Styles said Tanahashi would have done great in WWE had he made the switch.

“I think he would have done great. Like my own kids, there are a lot of anime fans here. Tanahashi, including his hairstyle, is like an anime character himself, so I think he would have been a hit. Plus, he understands this industry deeply, so he would have definitely succeeded.”

AJ Styles Plotting His Own Retirement

Styles was speaking ahead of a pair of WWE shows in Japan, two shows he recently admitted will be his last in the country. While promoting the short tour, AJ Styles confirmed that he plans to retire in 2026 after one final run at WrestleMania.

Before he gets that far, Styles is set for one final clash with John Cena at Crown Jewel before the 17-time World Champion ends his own career in December.

Cena has just five appearances remaining before he retires, with three more matches, including the bout with Styles, on the horizon. The veteran is expected to compete at Survivor Series in November before wrestling Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13.

The star’s other two appearances will see him say goodbye to Boston and Madison Square Garden on Raw on November 10 and 17, respectively.