AJ Styles’ WWE SmackDown Return Marred by Injury Scare

One big thing

AJ Styles’ return to WWE SmackDown on October 4 ended abruptly due to an apparent ankle injury during his match against Carmelo Hayes.

The details

• The match was stopped by the referee after Styles appeared to hurt his ankle.
• Commentary referred to the injury as a “sprained ankle.”
• LA Knight attacked Hayes after the match stoppage.
• Initial reports suggested the injury was part of a storyline, but Styles may have legitimately been hurt.

Behind the scenes

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports:

• Styles began selling the injury after landing from a quebrada.
• The leg “went out” during an ushigoroshi attempt.
• Styles was reportedly “pretty mad about the whole thing.”

Why it matters

This injury scare could impact WWE’s planned storyline for Styles, which was reportedly set to be a “farewell tour” or retirement tease.

The bigger picture

• Styles’ last match before this return was against Cody Rhodes at Clash at the Castle in June.
• He has been active on the house show circuit and European tour.
• Styles’ current WWE contract is set to expire either late 2024 or early 2025.

What’s next

The severity of Styles’ injury and its impact on future storylines will depend on MRI results.

What do you think about AJ Styles’ potential “farewell tour” storyline? Share your thoughts in the comments below.