AJ Styles says working for Vince McMahon was “neither good nor bad” and that the former WWE Chairman gave him the chance to become a two-time World Heavyweight Champion, while noting the creative environment under current WWE leadership is noticeably more open.
Speaking on The Phenomenally Retro Podcast, Styles reflected on what it was like to approach McMahon with questions and how the locker room atmosphere has changed since his departure.
I enjoyed the fact that if I had a question that needed to be answered and I needed it right then, I could go to Vince and he’d give me the answer. I can appreciate that. There was one time where I told him I was trying to read him, meaning how he felt about something. He said, ‘Don’t do that. You can’t read me.’ Maybe they’ve been true, but things were different. I feel like guys walked around a little bit more timid when Vince was in charge, where now they can give their opinions and stuff like that more freely, ask questions without being yelled at.
Styles also noted a change in how on-air talent is treated behind the scenes.
Guys who are commentating aren’t being yelled at and said mean things to. I don’t know exactly what those mean things are, but I’ve heard stories. I don’t think it’s as micromanaged as it was. ‘Okay, I hire all these brilliant people to just micromanage it. That’s what they’re for.’ But it’s not to be on top of every little thing and it’s quite impossible because it’s such a large company, right?
On his own relationship with McMahon, Styles kept it straightforward.
It was neither good or bad working for Vince. I mean, he gave me a chance to be AJ Styles in WWE and a two-time World Heavyweight Champion. So, what am I to complain about? We were not hanging out after work. I promise you that.
Styles debuted in WWE at the 2016 Royal Rumble and retired in January 2026 before being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.