The announcement of IMPACT Knockouts World Champion Mickie James’ participation in the Women’s Royal Rumble match shocked the wrestling world, and it generated plenty of speculation about the potential room for more collaboration between WWE and other companies. But AJ Styles believes there’s an important trait that set James apart from other possible crossover stars.
In an interview with Scott Fishman of TV Insider, Styles shared his assumption that in any future collaboration, WWE will focus on performers who have worked with the company. “The Phenomenal One” referenced James’ history with WWE and praised her talent before he stated that her representation of IMPACT on WWE programming benefitted everyone.
“I think it all depends,” said Styles. “First of all, I’m assuming we are only going to work with people who worked with WWE before, because we know what to expect from them. Mickie James is one of those, a great talent. It’s cool to see her bring the Impact championship to WWE with her. It’s good for everyone.”
Time will tell whether WWE continues to directly work with other promotions. For now, Styles is focused on WrestleMania 38. He’ll have the opportunity to enter the biggest show of the year at WWE Elimination Chamber, where he’ll challenge for the WWE Championship. Win or lose, the former champion has WrestleMania in his sights; while he emphasized his desire to make his dream match with Edge a reality, Styles made it clear that he’ll just be happy to be on the show.
“I had the opportunity to wrestle The Undertaker at WrestleMania,” said Styles. “It was something I did not think I was going to get the chance to do. I was jealous of guys before who had the opportunity to do it. Edge is another of those guys. I didn’t think I would have this opportunity. I’d really like to see it happen. But I’m a team player. Whatever comes up when it comes to WrestleMania, as long as I’m there I’m happy.”
Styles will enter the Elimination Chamber at the premium live event on February 19, where he’ll face WWE Champion Bobby Lashley, Brock Lesnar, Seth “Freakin” Rollins, Riddle, and Austin Theory in a title match.
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