WWE legend AJ Styles has been nothing short of a luminary in the hardcore world of professional wrestling. But after recent events, he orchestrated a cunning ruse on this week’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown, catching the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes off guard.
During the emotional segment on the latest edition of SmackDown, The Phenomenal One reflected on his illustrious career, expressing his reluctance to restart his journey toward the Undisputed WWE Championship and earn another shot at The American Nightmare. AJ Styles mentioned his son’s upcoming graduation, implying that his responsibilities as a father were becoming a priority.
Subsequently, Styles invited Cody Rhodes, to the ring, thanking him for their memorable match at WWE Backlash France. Just as the show was about to conclude, Styles stunned the WWE fans by launching a surprise assault on Cody Rhodes, culminating in a brutal Styles Clash from the steel steps to the mat outside the ring.
Why did Mark Henry react to AJ Styles’ recent segment?
In the wake of this, former AEW veteran Mark Henry has shared his thoughts on Styles’ deceptive retirement announcement. The moment drew parallels to Henry’s infamous fake retirement in June 2013, where a teared-eyed legend, seemingly bid farewell alongside then-WWE champion John Cena, only to shock everyone by delivering a World’s Strongest Slam to Cena. The main difference this time was the color of the jacket as Styles wore light blue, while Henry donned salmon pink.
As comparisons between the two segments went rapid online, Mark Henry himself acknowledged AJ Styles on X. The WWE Hall of Famer commended Styles for his brilliant execution that mirrored his own famous segment.
“Well done AJ 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿 @BustedOpenRadio @WWE.”
…..well done AJ 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿@BustedOpenRadio @WWE
— TheMarkHenry (@TheMarkHenry) June 1, 2024
Following the events that transpired, AJ Styles seems to be showing no signs of ending his in-ring career. Moreover, this bold move signals the start of Styles’ quest for another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship, which in turn would mean another match with The American Nightmare.
