Introducing new faction, Invading SummerSlam match? — 4 ways AJ Styles can return to WWE

AJ Styles has been away from WWE television since his thrilling encounter against Cody Rhodes at Clash at the Castle 2024. The Phenomenal One suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the 'I Quit' match against The American Nightmare for the Undisputed WWE Championship.

However, Styles is rumored to be gearing up for a big return, which could leave fans in awe. His return could unleash a new wave of unexpected alliances, shocking rivalries and unprecedented excitement, as the former WWE Champion will seemingly look to reignite the fire within him.

Let's look at four ways AJ Styles can make his return to WWE.

#4. Embark on a redemption arc

AJ Styles failed to capture the Undisputed WWE Championship from Cody Rhodes not once but twice, as he came up short on both occasions. Therefore, The Phenomenal One could return to WWE and set out on a redemption tour on SmackDown, possibly after SummerSlam.

With the embers of defeat still smoldering, his desire for championship glory may ignite a fierce determination within him. This could lead Styles to embark on a mission to establish his credibility and regain his momentum, carving his path to the top of the division once again.

The 47-year-old star could feud with some of the prominent names on the brand, such as Kevin Owens, Randy Orton or LA Knight after SummerSlam. Targeting a top babyface upon his return could help him redeem himself and also accentuate his heel persona on SmackDown.

#3. AJ Styles can become a mentor on SmackDown

AJ Styles' crushing defeat at the hands of Cody Rhodes at Clash at the Castle could pave the way for him to adopt a new role on SmackDown. The Phenomenal One could make a return to WWE not as a competitor but as a mentor, imparting his wealth of knowledge and experience to a promising protege on the roster.

Styles could align with a budding superstar on SmackDown, such as Carmelo Hayes or any rising talent from NXT, upon his return and guide the latter. This could gradually sow the seeds for a feud between him and his potential protege, leading to a long-term storyline on the roster.

AJ Styles' return as a mentor could be a new opportunity to add a different element to his character. It could give the WWE Universe a new prospect of feuds and rivalries to tune into every week.

#2. Return as the leader of a new faction

One of the possible ways AJ Styles can return to WWE is by being the leader of a new faction. The veteran superstar could take two promising NXT talents under his wing and unveil a potential new stable on SmackDown, leaving a trail of destruction and dominance in its wake.

The Phenomenal One could debut his potential new faction at SummerSlam, which has the potential to set the WWE Universe into a frenzy. Styles could wreak havoc on any superstar at the spectacle alongside his new allies, which could put the entire roster on notice and pave the way for a fresh start.

Upon his return, AJ Styles debuting a new faction could open the doors for new rivalries. He could also bring forth Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson to reform The OC in a renewed role, helping them go straight for DIY's newly won Tag Team Titles.

#1. Invade the United States Championship match at SummerSlam

This year's SummerSlam is expected to witness a highly anticipated clash between Logan Paul and LA Knight for the United States Championship. However, this could be where AJ Styles makes his shocking return by either invading the match or making a statement after the match.

The Phenomenal One could launch a vicious assault on whoever the United States Champion would be after the potential title match between Paul and Knight at The Bigger Party of the Summer. Styles can make his intentions clear by attacking the champion and injecting himself into the title picture.

The mere possibility of Styles' intervention in the United States Championship match at SummerSlam has the potential to generate a newfound buzz. It could also mark an impactful return and immediately put The Phenomenal One in the spotlight.

The above scenarios are mere speculations and possibilities that could unfold upon his comeback. It remains to be seen how and when AJ Styles returns to WWE, as it could unravel in ways that might create a flurry of excitement among the fans.