Chris Jericho Says AEW Tried to Sign AJ Styles – Chris Jericho has confirmed that All Elite Wrestling previously explored signing AJ Styles, shedding light on past discussions that took place when Styles’ WWE contract was nearing its end.

Speculation about Styles potentially joining AEW surfaced earlier this year following his retirement from in-ring competition in WWE. While Styles publicly dismissed those rumors at the time, Jericho has now revealed that there was indeed a period when AEW made a serious effort to bring “The Phenomenal One” into the company.

“There was a time when we were going after him when his contract was up,” Jericho said. “Could he be a good fit? Of course he would be. AJ’s a great performer and a great guy. But there is something to be said for the fact that when you’ve worked in the Vince McMahon system for a long time, you think differently.”

Jericho went on to discuss how structural differences between WWE and AEW can impact a wrestler’s transition from one promotion to another. According to him, the internal approach to producing shows and managing talent can shape how performers adapt when switching environments.

“There are ways WWE runs their company, and there are ways AEW runs theirs,” Jericho continued. “I’m not going to speak for AJ, but I don’t know why you’d retire in one place and then immediately go somewhere else. That said, I’m sure it’s always a possibility.”

Despite the earlier speculation, Styles has remained part of WWE in a non-wrestling capacity following his retirement. He is also scheduled to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame during WrestleMania Week in Las Vegas, adding another major accolade to his career.

In addition to his Hall of Fame recognition, Styles has launched an official podcast, allowing him to stay connected with fans even after stepping away from active competition.

Jericho’s comments offer rare insight into AEW’s past recruitment efforts and highlight how close the wrestling world may have come to seeing Styles make the jump to a new stage late in his career.

Chris Jericho Says AEW Tried to Sign AJ Styles

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