AJ Styles recently shared his thoughts on the arrival of former IWGP Champion EVIL, now known as Naraku, in WWE. While many fans expected his debut to come on the main roster, few anticipated that he would begin his WWE run in NXT.
Speaking on his Phenomenally Retro podcast, Styles discussed Naraku’s decision to start in NXT instead of immediately joining the main roster, similar to the path Styles himself took when he debuted in WWE in 2016. The Phenomenal One also compared Naraku’s situation to Shinsuke Nakamura, pointing out that the King of Strong Style also began his WWE journey in NXT before becoming a major star, while voicing support for Naraku’s decision.
AJ Styles Revealed How NXT Will Eventually Help Naraku In His WWE Career Ahead
While taking note of Shinsuke Nakamura’s journey to the main roster, AJ Styles revealed how he was thrown into the mix and had to learn a lot to impress Vince McMahon and WWE’s top brass. Styles revealed, “Even I had to learn quick. It was a learning process, and I had to learn quick because I was on there. I couldn’t afford to screw up or mess up or whatever it is you want to call it.”
He further added how going to NXT seems to be a smooth transition stating, “So, we don’t want anybody to go up to the main roster and have to learn like that. I don’t think that’s a good idea. It’s better to go [to NXT]. It’s just a smooth transition.”
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The former 2-time WWE Champion revealed how he did not know that wrestlers are not supposed to turn their backs to the camera, and such small things can be improved and learned in NXT. He further stated how NJPW does not have such rules for wrestlers, as they treat professional wrestling as a sport rather than sports entertainment.
He added, “Because you don’t do that in Japan. There are no producers in Japan. Because it doesn’t matter where the cameras are, they just shoot.”
Naraku Tears Through Lince Dorado In Explosive NXT Debut
After making his first NXT appearance by confronting the reigning NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo, Naraku seems to be on a war path as he made his in-ring debut on May 12. He destroyed Lince Dorado in his first-ever singles match in the WWE, and big things are being expected from the former IWGP Heavyweight champion.
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Apart from his professional life, Naraku also excelled in his love life as Iyo Sky and the former IWGP Champion announced their marriage earlier this week through a joint statement and wedding photos shared on social media. As things look good for the 39-year-old at the moment, it remains to be seen how his WWE run turns out.
