In a heartfelt testament to a fellow pioneer, former TNA roster members Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin have taken to speak about the lasting impact of AJ Styles on their professional wrestling careers, particularly in relation to their respective journeys to WWE. As Styles prepares for his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame on Friday, Shelley and Sabin were quick to credit him with illuminating the path for them to establish themselves in the major league of professional wrestling.
The connection between the three men is rooted in the independent wrestling scene and the transition to the WWE spotlight. Alex Shelley shared with Fox News Digital that his admiration for Styles borders on emotional significance, acknowledging Styles as a sort of ‘big brother.’ Shelley emphasized that Styles’ early success marked a crucial moment for the new generation of wrestlers following the stars of the previous eras. He stated, ‘AJ is the one that tugs on my heartstrings the most. It’s bittersweet, I think, for me, at least, because he’s been such a big brother to me.’
The praise was not limited to Shelley. Chris Sabin echoed the sentiment, asserting that Styles’ accomplishments were groundbreaking and inspirational. Sabin noted that Styles had achieved feats that few others managed, positioning him as a definitive role model. To the duo’s astonishment, they framed Styles not just as a successful performer, but as the catalyst for their own careers in WWE, suggesting that his trailblazing efforts were instrumental in their own opportunities, which occurred nearly a decade after his initial, monumental emergence in the industry.
The article provides a comprehensive overview of AJ Styles’ remarkable career achievements. Before his significant tenure in WWE, Styles amassed notable accolades within Total Nonstop Action (TNA), including six-time TNA X-Division championships, three-time National Wrestling Alliance world heavyweight championships, and a prestigious first-ever grand slam and triple crown title within the organization. His time in WWE was equally storied, where he secured two-time WWE Championship reigns, three-time United States Championship titles, one-time Intercontinental Championship, and two-time world tag team championships.
The significance of the Hall of Fame induction ceremony cannot be overstated. It serves as a moment of lasting recognition for icons who have shaped professional wrestling history. This year’s ceremony is slated to take place at Dolby Live at Park MGM on Friday night, marking another milestone for wrestlers from various eras. The class of inductees is expected to include wrestling legends spanning multiple decades, confirming Styles’ status among the sport’s most revered figures.