AJ Styles Brings Back Legendary Mask From His Past, Leaves WWE Fans in Shock at Saturday Night’s Main Event
AJ Styles delivered a moment fans won’t forget at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, blending nostalgia with shock value just weeks before one of the biggest matches of his career.
Ahead of his high-stakes showdown with GUNTHER at the Royal Rumble—where his WWE future will be on the line—Styles accepted a surprise challenge from longtime rival Shinsuke Nakamura. While the match itself had buzz, it was Styles’ entrance that instantly stole the spotlight.
AJ Styles makes a jaw-dropping masked entrance
As Styles made his way to the ring, fans quickly realized something was different. The Phenomenal One appeared wearing a mask, immediately sparking reactions across the arena and online. Earlier in the day, Styles had teased his match gear on social media, but few expected what followed.
Commentary quickly added context to the shocking visual, with Michael Cole emphasizing that this wasn’t just a random accessory—it was a deeply personal callback to one of the most important moments in Styles’ career.
A powerful throwback to NJPW history
Cole explained that the last time AJ Styles wore a mask to the ring was nearly a decade ago, during his final New Japan Pro-Wrestling match in January 2016. That bout, fittingly, was also against Shinsuke Nakamura, with the IWGP Intercontinental Championship on the line.
By reviving the iconic mask, Styles signaled that this wasn’t just another match. It was a statement—one rooted in legacy, rivalry, and unfinished business.
What this means heading into Royal Rumble
With his career-defining clash against GUNTHER looming, Styles’ “old school” move felt symbolic. It reminded fans of the global icon he’s been for years and hinted that he’s willing to tap into every chapter of his past to survive what comes next.
Whether this was a one-night tribute or a deeper sign of what’s to come, one thing is clear: AJ Styles knows exactly how to command attention when it matters most.
