Challenges Faced by AJ Styles: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 18, 2026

Life is full of challenges, and AJ Styles faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Allen Neal Jones, known as AJ Styles, is a retired American professional wrestler and current WWE talent scout. He achieved prominence through his work in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), and Ring of Honor (ROH). Styles started his career in 1998, wrestling for several independent promotions and World Championship Wrestling (WCW) before achieving mainstream recognition in TNA.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

February 2013: Styles' home videos and return to TNA

In February 2013, TNA began airing videos at Styles' home interviewing his wife and friends. Styles, sporting a beard and unkempt look, returned to TNA with the Calf Killer submission hold, defeating James Storm. Styles feuded with Kurt Angle after refusing to reveal whether he was with the Aces & Eights stable. His new gimmick was nicknamed "The Lone Wolf".

2013: Styles wins Bound for Glory and leaves TNA

In 2013, AJ Styles won the Bound For Glory Series, earning a TNA World Heavyweight Championship match. Despite not having a contract, he defeated Bully Ray at Bound for Glory to win his second championship. After defending the title, he refused a new contract offer and left TNA with the title. TNA vacated the title on October 29th, and Styles returned to unify the titles with Magnus in his final match. Contract negotiations broke down in December, leading to Styles' departure after nearly twelve years due to a 60% salary reduction offer.

March 1, 2014: Styles injures Lionheart in Preston City Wrestling

On March 1, 2014, AJ Styles appeared for Preston City Wrestling in England, losing to Lionheart. After the match, Styles performed the Styles Clash, resulting in Lionheart breaking his neck due to improper tucking of his chin.

January 4, 2016: Styles Unsuccessfully Challenges for IWGP Intercontinental Championship and Announces Departure

On January 4, 2016, AJ Styles unsuccessfully challenged Shinsuke Nakamura for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship at Wrestle Kingdom 10 in Tokyo Dome. Hours later, he gave his notice to NJPW, announcing his departure and intention to sign with WWE.