4 replacements for AJ Styles on WWE SmackDown following his injury

AJ Styles made his much-awaited return this week on SmackDown after a prolonged hiatus. However, his homecoming turned into a nightmare as he sustained an injury during his very first match against Carmelo Hayes. In the aftermath of the tragic incident, Styles was spotted leaving the arena on crutches and wearing a boot, hinting towards the legitimacy of his injury.

The Phenomenal One could be away from WWE for a while to assess the severity of the knee injury and rehabilitate. Therefore, it would once again leave a void in SmackDown's men's division. However, there are several superstars WWE could bring back on the blue brand to fill that spot in case the former WWE Champion goes on a hiatus in the wake of his injury.

Let's look at four WWE stars who could replace AJ Styles on SmackDown:

#4. Sami Zayn

Sami Zayn has the potential to be AJ Styles' possible replacement on SmackDown. The 40-year-old star has been involved in a feud with Gunther that is likely to culminate next week. Therefore, it looks like a perfect opportunity for WWE to switch Zayn's brand considering there is nothing major left for him to do on Monday Night RAW.

Besides, he is expected to reunite with Roman Reigns and The Usos to re-form The Bloodline ahead of Survivor Series: WarGames. Therefore, having him as Styles' replacement on SmackDown could be an appropriate way to set up this reunion. Moreover, Sami Zayn can match AJ Styles's popularity, making him one of the right candidates to fill up the void.

#3. Logan Paul

Logan Paul is a prominent name among the long list of superstars who are currently on hiatus. The Maverick has been away from WWE television since losing his United States Championship at SummerSlam 2024. However, WWE might bring him back on SmackDown as AJ Styles' replacement in the wake of the latter's recent injury.

Besides, Crown Jewel is just on the horizon, and the social media megastar might begin a new feud heading into the grand spectacle in Saudi Arabia.

#2. Drew McIntyre

Drew McIntyre is set to compete in a high-profile match against CM Punk inside Hell in a Cell at Bad Blood. This rivalry is expected to culminate at the spectacle. Following the PLE, McIntyre could move to SmackDown. He could be a perfect fit to fill AJ Styles' void if the latter goes on hiatus again.

Moreover, there are various feuds Drew McIntyre could have on SmackDown against the likes of Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton. Besides, it would also provide a fresh start to his character following a nine-month-long feud with CM Punk. Styles' return this week garnered a huge reaction from fans, and McIntyre moving to the blue brand could do the same.

All in all, it will be a fresh start for the former WWE Champion which will open the doors for some intriguing feuds and storylines.

#1. Shinsuke Nakamura could replace AJ Styles

One of the biggest names who could be a perfect replacement for AJ Styles on SmackDown is Shinsuke Nakamura. The King of Strong Style has been away from WWE television for over 150 days. It was reported earlier that WWE has no creative plans for the Japanese superstar. However, Styles' injury may have opened the door for Nakamura's highly anticipated return.

The veteran superstar could go after the United States Championship held by LA Knight. Besides, he might also return as a babyface to revitalize his career on SmackDown.