AJ Styles defeats Naomichi Marufuji at Pro Wrestling NOAH Destination; wins his return match in Japan

AJ Styles faced Naomichi Marufuji on his return to Japan at Pro Wrestling NOAH Destination 2024. The Phenomenal One walked out victorious.

Styles was previously signed to New Japan Pro Wrestling. During his time in the company, he won the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and also became the leader of the Bullet Club. At the time, the faction also consisted of Kenny Omega, Karl Anderson, Luke Gallows, Tama Tonga, and other prominent names.

Upon his return to Japan, Styles defeated Marufuji with the Styles Clash. The two also had some incredible sequences throughout the contest.

Watch the finish to Styles vs. Marufuji below:

The last time AJ Styles appeared on WWE programming was back at Clash at the Castle: Scotland when he faced Cody Rhodes in their rematch. He has been absent from the company since losing the "I Quit" Match to The American Nightmare.

In the lead-up to the match, Styles also pulled off a fake retirement angle on Rhodes. However, in reality, The Phenomenal One has actually discussed the idea of retiring from in-ring competition, claiming that he doesn't have much time left as a professional wrestler. It remains to be seen when WWE decides to bring Styles back to the company.