AJ Styles’ Explosive WWE Promo Was Allegedly a “Shoot”

AJ Styles’ WWE contract is set to expire in February 2026, right after the Royal Rumble and before WrestleMania 42. Styles.

He agreed to a one-year extension earlier in 2025 following an extended injury break. Before finalizing his latest deal, he explored options outside WWE, including interest from other promotions, but ultimately chose to stay. He has also openly discussed his desire to retire before age 50, which is now less than two years away.

Amid the situation surrounding his contract news, AJ Styles delivered an explosive pipebomb promo on Monday Night RAW in Milwaukee on September 8, 2025. Styles vented about not having friends in WWE anymore. He referenced the departure of former OC teammates and stated his lack of protection. He also shared that he feels targeted by unseen forces.

This segment was aired only for the live crowd during a commercial break, which triggered discussion about whether the promo was work or shoot. The segment has gone viral on social media, and WWE hasn’t clarified if it was scripted or not, leaving the WWE Universe divided. Some believe it’s a creative farewell angle linked to Styles’ contract situation, while others wonder if his words signaled actual backstage tension.

Bully Ray Comments on AJ Styles’ Promo on RAW

Bully Ray analyzed AJ Styles’ promo on his Busted Open Radio podcast, where he expressed astonishment that Styles would go off-script and deliver what seemed like honest criticism. He found it unusual for Styles to play up having no allies, since Styles is usually portrayed as a heroic figure who wins on his own.

“I don’t know [who he’s talking about], but I’m shocked that AJ Styles went into business for himself and started shooting on the microphone. That normally doesn’t happen, but he did it last night, ’cause that was a straight up shoot, brother,” Ray said. “Outside of the box, do you think this has something to do with TNA? There was an aspect of what AJ said that I did not like. AJ insinuated that he can’t win around here, because he’s got nobody protecting him and nobody’s got his back. AJ is an uber babyface, white meat babyface, you don’t need anybody, you win on your own.”

Ray also suggested WWE orchestrated the segment specifically to spark speculation and conversation online, especially since it happened during a commercial break and was later distributed via social media.

“He cut the promo on commercial break, obviously, WWE didn’t want it on TV, they wanted it on social media. What they wanted to happen is exactly what we’re doing right now, we’re speculating. Hmm, who could he be talking about, and that’s what they want.”

h/t to Wrestling Inc. for transcription.