AJ Styles’ tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) as part of the Bullet Club not only solidified his own career but also elevated the faction to unprecedented popularity within the wrestling world. Matt Hardy, a veteran of the industry, recently shared his insights on just how pivotal Styles’ contribution was during his time with the notorious stable.
“Extreme Life of Matt Hardy” provided a platform for Hardy to reflect on Styles’ influence on the Bullet Club and its broader impact on professional wrestling. According to Hardy, Styles played a crucial role in propelling Bullet Club into mainstream recognition and global appeal.
“It was huge because Bullet Club was one of those things that really transcended the business,” Hardy commented. “Once it caught a hold of people, they didn’t let it go, they dug the Bullet Club, and AJ was really the guy who started all of that in many, many ways.”
During his stint in NJPW, Styles not only captured the IWGP Heavyweight Championship twice but also became synonymous with the Bullet Club’s rise to prominence. The stable, known for its rebellious attitude and international reach, gained significant traction under Styles’ leadership, attracting a dedicated fanbase beyond Japan’s borders.
Hardy also reminisced about a time when WWE Chairman Vince McMahon expressed curiosity about the Bullet Club phenomenon, unaware of its origins and growing influence among wrestling enthusiasts.
“Vince McMahon openly asked about the Bullet Club, as he didn’t know who they were or where they came from,” Hardy recalled. He highlighted McMahon’s response to the Bullet Club’s popularity among fans attending WWE events, drawing parallels to the “delete” chants that preceded The Hardy Boyz’s return to WWE.
“He’s like ‘damn it, give me the Bullet Club, I want them all,'” Hardy recounted from a meeting. “There was a time where that’s a quote which Vince said in a meeting, like ‘damn all these shirts, they keep coming to our shows, give me the Bullet Club, I want them all,’ and that was like a legitimate deal.”
Stephen’s Insight
AJ Styles’ pivotal role in the Bullet Club not only defined his own career trajectory but also left a lasting impact on how wrestling stables are perceived and marketed in the modern era. His tenure in NJPW (New Japan Pro-Wrestling) not only solidified his reputation as a global superstar but also laid the foundation for his subsequent achievements in WWE, where he continues to be celebrated as one of the top performers in the industry.
During his time in NJPW, Styles’ leadership and in-ring prowess elevated the Bullet Club to unprecedented heights of popularity and influence. The stable became synonymous with a rebellious, edgy attitude that resonated with fans worldwide, showcasing Styles’ ability to thrive in a leadership role within a faction known for its bold, boundary-pushing storytelling.
Upon transitioning to WWE, Styles seamlessly carried forward the momentum and credibility he had built in NJPW. His debut at the Royal Rumble in 2016 marked a significant moment, instantly establishing him as a formidable force within WWE’s competitive landscape. Styles’ technical prowess, charisma, and consistency in delivering standout matches quickly solidified his status as a main event caliber talent.
Beyond his individual accolades, Styles’ impact on wrestling stables endures. The Bullet Club’s innovative branding and global appeal set a benchmark for how factions are marketed in the modern wrestling industry. His contributions to this evolution have influenced how stables are structured, promoted, and integrated into storyline narratives across various promotions.
As AJ Styles continues to excel in WWE, his legacy as a pioneer of modern wrestling stables remains undeniable. His journey from the Bullet Club in NJPW to becoming a cornerstone of WWE exemplifies not only his talent and determination but also his profound influence on the shaping of wrestling’s contemporary landscape.