AJ Styles, on the criticism of TKO and WWE: 'They're going to have to make some changes if they want to stay on top'

WWE has lost its connection with its audience, as evidenced by the strong and constant criticism from fans regarding a multitude of questionable decisions made by the company, including abusive pricing, increased advertising in their shows, and, above all, a significant drop in the quality of the creative department.

This situation is well known within the company, and although it may not seem to concern them outwardly, the truth is that many hope things can improve to regain the trust of the fans. One of these individuals is AJ Styles, who shared his point of view on the matter during the most recent edition of his podcast Phenomenally Retro.

About the criticism towards TKO and WWE

"It is necessary to understand that it is their job to take responsibility for everything that is happening, and that is precisely their responsibility. It's like saying: 'Listen, we are in charge of this, so we take all the blame'. That is our job, and we have to live with it," he said.

"But also, when they do something right, we must acknowledge it. For example, with AAA they did something right, and we can congratulate them for it. In other things, they may have made mistakes, and we can say: 'Well, that wasn't very good'. Everyone has the right to have opinions and express them," he continued. But at the same time, you can't be constantly angry or complaining about everything that happens. Because there are positive things happening under TKO. Not everything will always be perfect. No one is."

"But since it is such a large company, it is not limited solely to the wrestling part, right? There are other issues that appear in the media that I really don't know much about. That's why I don't usually comment on it because I simply don't know. But yes, there are other matters at hand," he added.

About the possibility of WWE making changes during the second half of 2026

"They will. Listen, things will improve. Everyone learns from their mistakes, whatever they may be. I understand that things are not exactly as some want them to be. But those things change, especially when there is competition. You will have to adapt. You will have to improve. You will have to find new solutions and develop new talents," he said.

"All of those things will have to happen if you want to stay on top. If you want to continue charging these prices, you will have to make people feel that it's worth attending the events. You will have to make the experience worthwhile for them. They will have to change things. That's how the business world works. We have to compete."