AJ Styles Reflects On Failed WWE Title Chase Against Cody Rhodes
WWE Hall of Famer AJ Styles recently reflected on his 2024 WWE Championship storyline with Cody Rhodes.
The feud played out across two Premium Live Events last year. 'The Phenomenal One' challenged Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at both Backlash France in May and Clash at the Castle in June.
Rhodes defeated Styles at Backlash France on May 4, 2024, in his first PLE title defense after winning the championship from Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. The rematch took place at Clash at the Castle in Glasgow, Scotland, where Rhodes again retained the title.
Speaking on his Phenomenally Retro podcast, Styles reflected on the booking reality.
"I remember when Cody won the World Championship and AJ Styles was going through his dark time. The pitch was for AJ Styles to wrestle Cody Rhodes. I was like, ‘Well, freak. I just tried to get this character over being just a vicious heel, and I’m gonna have to lose if I’m wrestling Cody because we can’t flip flop the title. That’s not the way it’s gonna work.’ So it was nice being back in the main event on the PLEs and whatnot."
The program marked a significant chapter in Rhodes' championship reign, coming immediately after his historic WrestleMania victory. Styles, a two-time WWE Champion himself, served as Rhodes' first major challenger during this run.
AJ Styles remains active behind the scenes and has been a part of NXT scouting team following his retirement.
