On the September 8, 2025, episode of WWE RAW, AJ Styles delivered a shocking pipebomb promo during a commercial break, allegedly going off-script to express his frustrations with WWE’s backstage politics, specifically taking aim at Triple H’s creative decisions. The Phenomenal One spoke candidly to the live crowd and the global audience about feeling isolated and targeted within the company, sparking intense buzz across the wrestling world[1][2][3].

Before facing El Grande Americano in a singles match, Styles grabbed the microphone and laid it all out. He lamented the absence of his longtime allies Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson—released earlier this year—and noted how Michin had been moved to SmackDown. “It’s like someone orchestrated a way for me not to win anymore. I’ll let you make your own conclusions,” Styles said. The most incendiary line came when he declared, “I’m telling you something you’re probably not supposed to hear, but somebody doesn’t want me here”[3][4]. The promo’s raw intensity suggested it was directed at WWE’s decision-makers, including Triple H, the head of creative.

This rare glimpse of AJ Styles breaking kayfabe blurred the lines between storyline and reality, drawing comparisons to past legendary “pipebomb” promos, such as CM Punk’s iconic rant in 2011. Wrestling fans and insiders are now speculating on whether Styles is genuinely airing grievances or if this is a carefully crafted storyline by WWE’s creative team to elevate his current feud with Dominik Mysterio and his interference ally El Grande Americano[2].

Despite the backstage buzz, AJ Styles backed up his words in the ring that night, successfully defeating El Grande Americano to secure his first singles victory in two weeks. The win came after several frustrating losses, which compounded his on-screen storyline of being marginalized by WWE management[3].

AJ Lee Makes Official WWE Return, Match Confirmed

In other WWE RAW news, it was officially confirmed that AJ Lee is returning to WWE television, reigniting excitement from fans who have eagerly awaited the former Divas Champion’s comeback. Details of her first match back were announced, though WWE kept specifics under wraps pending further promotion[3]. Sources close to the company indicated AJ’s return will be a major storyline focus heading towards the upcoming pay-per-view, signaling WWE’s commitment to integrating her into the current women’s division in a meaningful way.

AJ Lee’s return is seen as a boost for WWE’s female roster, especially as the company continues to emphasize women’s wrestling with more prominent matches and ongoing rivalries. Fans can expect her signature passionate promos and in-ring intensity to shake up the competition soon.

Larry The Dog Stuns Fans Running RAW

Adding a lighter moment to the broadcast, WWE’s beloved mascot Larry The Dog was spotted roaming backstage throughout RAW, charming fans and even “running the show” at times according to WWE.com and social media highlights[3]. The canine star’s playful antics provided comic relief amidst the intensity of the AJ Styles promo and upcoming feuds.

Larry’s unexpected presence has become a fan-favorite staple on WWE programming, often seen interacting with wrestlers and getting involved in entertaining segments that lighten the raw’s atmosphere. This quirky backstage story spread rapidly on social media, boosting fan engagement during the episode.

What This Means for WWE’s Creative Direction

Insiders tell Fightful and other wrestling news outlets that AJ Styles’ pipebomb promo may reflect genuine backstage tensions. WWE’s leadership under Triple H has faced criticism for its creative choices, including the handling of top stars and veteran talent. Styles’ comments hint at possible dissatisfaction within the locker room regarding booking and support.

While WWE has not officially commented on the promo’s authenticity or meaning, the timing—amid AJ’s heated feud with Dominik Mysterio and returns of notable talents like AJ Lee—could signal a strategic attempt to blend reality into storylines to captivate audiences.

As noted on popular wrestling podcasts and interviews, such moments of blurred reality typically generate huge interest and ratings boosts for WWE programming. Whether AJ Styles’ remarks mark real grievances or a new chapter of engaging storytelling, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely.

AJ Styles Versus El Grande Americano: Match Overview

The match itself saw AJ Styles demonstrate why he remains one of WWE’s most skilled performers, overcoming interference and previous setbacks to firmly establish himself as a contender. Styles’ victory over El Grande Americano was decisive but fueled further tension in the ongoing storyline with the Judgment Day faction.

Following the encounter, Styles vowed to continue fighting despite the obstacles, emphasizing the phrase “somebody doesn’t want me here” as motivation rather than discouragement.

Looking Ahead

The fallout from AJ Styles’ RAW promo and the confirmation of AJ Lee’s return set the stage for gripping developments on WWE programming. Fans should expect heightened drama in the mid-card and women’s divisions, alongside continued backstage intrigue.

Wrestling headlines and reliable sources recommend keeping an eye on upcoming RAW episodes and WWE’s social media for further developments about AJ Styles, AJ Lee, and the evolving creative environment within the company.

With Larry The Dog charming backstage crowds as always, WWE RAW proved once again to be both unexpectedly entertaining and unpredictably intense.

Sources: WWE.com, Fightful, Wrestling Headlines, eWrestlingNews, social media reports, backstage interviews and podcasts from September 2025.