AJ Styles has provided more insight into his new role as a WWE scout following his retirement from in-ring competition. The 2026 WWE Hall of Fame inductee discussed his responsibilities on the first episode of his Phenomenally Retro podcast.
Styles explained that he is actively searching for talent on the independent scene and scouring the internet for standout performers. He emphasized that he is looking for wrestlers with a specific quality that sets them apart.
"I've been going to indie shows and checking those out, just seeing what everyone has to offer, and stuff like that. I'm scouring the internet for something that sticks out. If people see talent. 'They are different. There is something about them.' I like that kind of stuff," Styles said on the podcast.
What AJ Styles Looks for in Talent
The former WWE Grand Slam Champion revealed that he is open to receiving submissions from wrestlers or fans who believe they have found someone special. He wants to discover talent before other promotions can sign them.
"If you want to send me that stuff, fine, go ahead, I'd love to see. I'm trying to check out and see how much talent is out there. I know what it's like to be on the indies and having a job. Traveling on the indies, sometimes it's hard to get things that you need," Styles explained.
He emphasized that he is looking for wrestlers with the same drive and passion he had during his independent wrestling days. Styles wants to see performers who have no backup plan and are fully committed to making it in professional wrestling.
If they are as desperate as I was to make it in the wrestling business, I'd love to see them before anybody else snags them up. Hopefully, I'm able to see talent before it's developed. There is something about them, the drive, and meeting them. I want to see myself in them. Not the same abilities or size, the same heart and passion that is going to go into this because we have no Plan B," he stated.
Hall of Fame Induction Next Month
Styles will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame next month in Las Vegas alongside Stephanie McMahon and Demolition. His retirement came during the February 23 episode of Raw in Atlanta, where he left his jacket and gloves in the ring before The Undertaker surprised him with the Hall of Fame announcement.
Styles' new role includes working with talent on the independent scene, NXT, and the main roster. He is also training his second oldest son to become a professional wrestler.
