In a stirring development that has captured WWE fans’ attention worldwide, AJ Styles delivered a blazing shoot-style promo during a commercial break on the September 8 episode of WWE RAW, sparking fresh speculation about his future with the company and WWE’s evolving creative direction. Meanwhile, WWE has quietly announced a major change behind the scenes, and Mark Henry has offered his thoughts on AJ Lee’s surprising WWE return. Here’s everything you need to know about these compelling developments.

AJ Styles’ Shoot-Style Promo: A Bold Statement Amidst Contract Uncertainty

During the Milwaukee stop of RAW, AJ Styles grabbed a microphone ahead of his match with El Grande Americano and unleashed a promo that blurred the lines between scripted wrestling dialogue and honest grievances. Addressing the live crowd and tens of thousands watching internationally, Styles claimed for the first time that “someone” inside WWE does not want him around. He referenced the earlier releases of his longtime allies Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson and noted that Mia Yim (Michin) is now confined to SmackDown, implying he feels isolated and unsupported for the first time in his career.

Styles stated: “I’m gonna tell you something you’re not supposed to hear, but somebody doesn’t want me here. So tonight, you’re going to beat the piss out of Grande Americano for me, so that person feels some of this pain too.” He then proceeded to secure an emphatic win over his opponent, snapping a two-week losing streak and possibly sending a message to WWE management about his enduring presence and desire for respect within the company [4][2].

Though Styles never explicitly named anyone responsible, fans and insiders immediately speculated that his remarks could be a subtle shot at Triple H, wielder of WWE creative power. Given Triple H’s pivotal role in talent management and creative decisions, many interpreted Styles’ statements as commentary on backstage politics and his uncertain standing within the roster hierarchy.

Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer Confirms Storyline Context

Award-winning journalist Dave Meltzer, on Wrestling Observer Radio, confirmed that Styles’ promo was part of a long-planned storyline connected to his contract situation. Styles’ current WWE contract is reported to expire in February, and Meltzer noted the company is weaving this reality into an on-screen narrative that mimics real-life tensions.

Meltzer explained: “They’re doing a Twitter, social media storyline. The word is out, his contract is up in February… it’s not a shoot, okay, but they’re doing some kind of storyline… It may be a way to maybe call attention to farewell stuff” [2].

This dovetails with Styles’ recent social media activity, including posting an hourglass photo earlier this week, symbolizing that his time in wrestling could soon come to a close. At some point earlier this year, Styles did indicate plans to retire by age 50, though where that retirement might take place—WWE or otherwise—remains open to question.

Industry Voices Weigh In: Bully Ray & Insider Perspectives

Wrestling veteran Bully Ray offered his take during his Busted Open Radio podcast, calling Styles’ promo “a straight-up shoot” given its candid tone and suggestion that Styles feels unsupported. Ray highlighted the unusual nature of such an off-script moment coming from a wrestler typically portrayed as self-reliant and heroic: “AJ is an uber babyface… you don’t need anybody, you win on your own. I’m shocked that AJ Styles went into business for himself and started shooting on the microphone” [3].

Ray also hinted WWE’s decision to air the promo only during the commercial break and then disseminate it via social media was a calculated move to stimulate online speculation and buzz. According to insiders cited by Wrestling News, the promo intentionally aired internationally during the commercial break to create a viral effect without disrupting domestic broadcasts [1][6].

WWE’s Major Behind-the-Scenes Change

In related news, WWE has quietly enacted a significant corporate change aimed at bolstering its recruitment and creative talent pool. The company has reportedly shifted its talent relations strategy by expanding creative input to a broader group of writers and veteran wrestlers, moving away from the traditional centralized model previously dominated by a few executives.

Sources close to WWE shared with Wrestling Headlines that this adjustment arose partly due to recent controversies and departures among key creatives and talents, including rumors surrounding Styles’ situation and other recent roster upheavals. The company hopes these reforms will translate into more engaging storylines and better backstage morale, ultimately improving fan experience [7].

Mark Henry Reacts to AJ Lee’s WWE Return

Adding to the week’s WWE news, Hall of Famer Mark Henry expressed enthusiasm upon learning of AJ Lee’s recent WWE return after several years away. In an interview segment aired on WWE.com, Henry praised Lee’s legacy and predicted her presence would inspire both current roster members and fans alike.

Henry stated, “AJ Lee was one of the most charismatic and compelling female performers we’ve seen. Having her back brings a fresh energy, and I think she’ll be a positive force backstage and on screen” [7].

AJ Lee’s return, though not yet fully explained storyline-wise, signals WWE’s intent to leverage popular past personalities as part of their broader content strategy.

What’s Next for AJ Styles and WWE?

With Styles’ contract status in limbo and his recent promo fueling speculation, the wrestling world waits to see if he will finalize a farewell run, re-sign, or perhaps venture to other promotions for the final chapters of his wrestling career. The shoot-style nature of his promo invites speculation about a possible heel turn or a more prominent role in WWE storylines focused on contract and backstage politics.

Moreover, WWE’s recent structural changes and return of beloved stars like AJ Lee suggest the company is actively evolving to meet fan expectations and maintain its competitive edge in sports entertainment.

As these narratives develop, fans are advised to stay tuned to WWE broadcasts, official channels, and trusted wrestling news outlets for updates.

Sources: Wrestling Observer Radio via Wrestling Inc., Busted Open Radio podcast, Wrestling Headlines, WWE.com, Ringside News, Wrestling News Blog.