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AJ Styles is a WWE scout

When it comes to defining what it takes to succeed in pro wrestling, few people are more qualified to do so than WWE Hall of Famer AJ Styles.

Styles, who held world championships across the globe with NWA, TNA, NPJW and WWE, has entered a scouting role with WWE following his retirement at Royal Rumble 2026.

Styles, known as The Phenomenal One, was one of the most technically sound and awe-inspiring wrestlers in history. Now, as a WWE scout, Styles is looking for the legends of tomorrow.

When breaking down his recruitment process, Styles noted that although there is no perfect outline for a wrestler, there are five pillars that he covets.

“I don’t know if there’s ever been attributes that we have in wrestling that we want everybody to have. [For me] there’s athletic ability, there’s charisma, there’s wrestling alone, talking on the mic, and drive. That’s the five I have as of right now,” Styles said on his podcast.

AJ Styles Returns to WWE as a Scout

After a phenomenal ten-year run in WWE as an in-ring performer, Styles will now spend his time searching for the promotion’s next big thing.

WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque detailed Styles’ transition to a front office role on Cody Rhodes’ podcast.

“Being an agent or producer is a different world than being in what we do. There are different fits for different people. AJ came in, he sat in on some creative meetings, he sat in on some production meetings. And I think he realized the writing thing’s not for him, the producer thing isn’t for him.

Leveque added that Styles prefer a hands-on role with WWE.

“What he really likes is getting to these young kids, spotting talent, and trying to help fan the flames of that little spark and turn it into something more—the developmental side.”

Last year, Leon Slater and Je’Von Evans praised Styles for his constant mentorship.

Styles has notably been a mild-mannered superstar who doesn’t hesitate to impart wisdom to young talent.

As a scout, Styles could play a role with NXT, which has become a breeding ground for WWE stars.

NXT Stars Are Taking Over the Main Roster

With the recent retirements of wrestling icons John Cena and AJ Styles, a new era of WWE is upon us.

Based on recent events, that era could be marked by the dominance of former NXT standouts.

Former NXT Champion Oba Femi recently dethroned the Beast Incarnate at WrestleMania 42. Shortly after his stunning victory, Femi called out the OTC Roman Reigns in what felt like a potential changing of the guard.

Femi is not the only NXT alumnus to shake the table on the main roster.

Less than a year removed from their WWE debut, Je’Von Evans and Trick Williams both competed in title matches at WrestleMania, with the latter defeating Sami Zayn for the United States Championship.

On Monday, Ethan Page, Sol Ruca and Zaria all debuted on RAW on Netflix. Longtime WWE commentator Michael Cole announced that former NXT Champion Joe Hendry will also join the RAW roster.

Over on SmackDown, Fatal Influence, Fallon Henley, Jacy Jayne, and Lainey Reid all debuted on WWE, attacking Charlotte Flair, Paige, Brie Bella and Alexa Bliss.