WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles: A Phenomenal Rivalry Revisited

Nov 6, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 96 views

WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles: A Phenomenal Rivalry Revisited

In the realm of professional wrestling, few matchups ignite the passion and debate among fans quite like a contest between two bona fide main eventers. One such rivalry that etched its place in recent memory is the electrifying series of matches between Roman Reigns and AJ Styles. When these two titans collide, the WWE Universe is guaranteed a spectacle of athleticism, storytelling, and bone-jarring action. The encounters featuring WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles transcended mere wrestling matches; they were clashes of contrasting styles, philosophies, and career trajectories that captivated audiences worldwide. Their dynamic, particularly during their memorable 2016 championship bouts, showcased the very best of what WWE had to offer, establishing both men as pivotal figures in the modern era of sports entertainment. The anticipation surrounding their potential future encounters remains high, underscoring the enduring legacy of their initial rivalry and the undeniable chemistry they share in the ring. This article delves deep into the history, impact, and lasting significance of this incredible pairing.

The Genesis of an Epic: Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles in 2016

The year 2016 marked a pivotal period for both Roman Reigns and AJ Styles within WWE, leading to a truly epic rivalry that would define much of that spring. Following WrestleMania 32, where Roman Reigns famously defeated Triple H to capture the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, a new challenge emerged in the form of AJ Styles, who had made a phenomenal debut at the Royal Rumble earlier that year. The stage was set for a championship clash that pitted the company’s polarizing top babyface against the ‘Phenomenal One’, a global wrestling icon making his mark on the biggest stage. Their first major encounter was at WWE Payback in May 2016, a match brimming with anticipation. Fans were eager to see how the powerhouse style of Reigns would fare against the high-flying, technically brilliant approach of Styles. The match itself was a masterclass in psychology, with numerous near falls and strategic maneuvers that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. The involvement of The Usos and Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows (Styles’ former Bullet Club associates) added layers of intrigue, teasing a potential heel turn for Styles and further escalating the animosity. Despite Styles’ valiant effort and incredible offense, Roman Reigns ultimately retained his title, but the intensity of their battle left an indelible mark and hinted at more to come.

The rivalry intensified dramatically, leading to an even more brutal rematch at WWE Extreme Rules. This time, the stakes were raised with a no-disqualification stipulation, promising an unhinged encounter where anything goes. The match lived up to its billing and then some. Both competitors pushed their bodies to the absolute limit, utilizing chairs, tables, and even the announce table as weapons. AJ Styles showcased his remarkable agility and resilience, hitting some of his most impactful moves, while Roman Reigns unleashed his signature power-based offense with heightened aggression. The no-disqualification rule allowed their contrasting styles to truly shine without restraint, creating a chaotic yet captivating spectacle. The crowd was absolutely electric, a testament to the compelling narrative woven throughout their rivalry. While Styles continued to impress with his ‘phenomenal’ efforts, Roman Reigns once again emerged victorious, cementing his reign as champion. However, these two matches not only solidified Reigns’ controversial championship run but also elevated Styles’ status as a legitimate main event threat in WWE. The chemistry between WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles was undeniable, crafting a series of matches that are still fondly remembered by fans for their sheer brutality, technical excellence, and compelling drama. This initial chapter truly laid the groundwork for a legendary rivalry, demonstrating the depth of talent both men possessed and their ability to deliver under immense pressure.

Clashing Styles and Unforgettable Chemistry in the Ring

The magic of any great professional wrestling rivalry often lies in the clash of styles, and nowhere was this more evident than in the encounters between Roman Reigns and AJ Styles. Roman Reigns, often dubbed ‘The Big Dog’ at the time, brought a raw, unadulterated power game to the ring. His offense was direct, impactful, and designed to wear down opponents with heavy strikes, devastating spears, and Superman Punches. His matches were often a test of endurance and strength, characterized by his ability to absorb punishment and dish it out in kind. Reigns’ physical presence and undeniable charisma made him a formidable champion, embodying the traditional powerhouse archetype that WWE often champions. On the other side of the ring stood AJ Styles, truly ‘The Phenomenal One’. Styles was a whirlwind of innovation, athleticism, and technical precision. His offense was a diverse arsenal of high-flying maneuvers, intricate submissions, and lightning-fast strikes. From the Springboard 450 Splash to the Calf Crusher and the iconic Styles Clash, he had a move for every situation, capable of adapting his strategy on the fly. Styles’ ability to seemingly defy gravity and execute complex sequences with fluid grace made him one of the most exciting performers on the planet. The beauty of WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles was precisely this contrast: strength versus agility, brute force versus technical finesse.

Their matches were a masterclass in how to tell a story through different wrestling styles. AJ Styles would meticulously target Roman Reigns’ limbs, attempting to ground the larger man and nullify his power advantage. He would utilize his speed to outmaneuver Reigns, hitting quick strikes and dives before the champion could retaliate. Conversely, Roman Reigns would look for opportunities to halt Styles’ momentum with explosive power moves, aiming to overpower the smaller challenger with impactful slams and strikes. Each time Styles would attempt a high-risk maneuver, Reigns would be there to counter with a devastating blow, creating a compelling back-and-forth dynamic. The near falls in their bouts were particularly memorable, as both men kicked out of each other’s finishers, raising the tension to unbearable levels. Fans genuinely believed either man could win at any moment, a testament to their captivating ring psychology. The crowd reaction during their Extreme Rules encounter, in particular, highlighted this chemistry; every move, every counter, and every dramatic kick-out elicited a visceral response. Furthermore, the narrative thread of The Usos attempting to interfere on behalf of Reigns, only to be neutralized by Anderson and Gallows for Styles, added another layer of excitement. This external interference didn’t detract from the match quality but rather enhanced the perception of a high-stakes championship bout. The seamless integration of their distinct styles, combined with their incredible athleticism, created moments that remain etched in the minds of the WWE Universe, proving that Roman Reigns and AJ Styles possessed an unforgettable chemistry that produced legitimate main event classics.

The Evolution of Two Icons: From Big Dog to Tribal Chief, Phenomenal to Veteran Leader

The trajectory of Roman Reigns and AJ Styles since their initial championship clashes in 2016 has been nothing short of extraordinary, with both men evolving into even more significant figures in WWE. Roman Reigns’ journey, in particular, has been one of the most compelling character arcs in recent wrestling history. After his run as ‘The Big Dog’ where he consistently headlined shows but struggled to gain universal fan acceptance, Reigns took a hiatus in 2020. Upon his return at SummerSlam, he unveiled a revolutionary new persona: ‘The Tribal Chief’. This character transformation saw him embrace his Samoan heritage, aligning himself with his cousins, The Usos, and later Solo Sikoa, to form The Bloodline. As ‘The Head of the Table’, Roman Reigns became a dominant, ruthless, and arguably the most compelling heel in modern WWE. His reign as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion has been historic, marked by unparalleled dominance, compelling long-term storytelling, and a newfound gravitas that has silenced many of his previous detractors. His matches now carry an immense weight, and his presence commands attention, solidifying his status as a true generational talent and an undisputed top draw for the company.

AJ Styles, on the other hand, continued his ‘phenomenal’ run, consistently delivering high-quality performances and holding various championships across different brands. After his initial rivalry with Reigns, Styles would go on to have a legendary reign as the WWE Champion, solidifying his position as one of the most versatile and reliable main eventers. He became a two-time WWE Champion, a United States Champion, an Intercontinental Champion, and a Raw Tag Team Champion, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in any role. Styles seamlessly transitioned from being the hot new commodity to a respected veteran leader, capable of elevating any opponent he steps into the ring with. His in-ring work remains as crisp and exciting as ever, and his ability to connect with the audience, whether as a babyface or a heel, is a testament to his enduring talent. The evolution of both icons means that a potential rematch between WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles today would be an entirely different beast than their 2016 encounters. Reigns now carries the weight of ‘The Tribal Chief’ and the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, embodying an almost unstoppable force. Styles, while still ‘phenomenal’, has matured into a more calculated and experienced competitor, capable of outsmarting opponents as much as out-wrestling them. The narrative possibilities are endless, making the thought of another showdown between these two even more tantalizing for fans who have witnessed their respective transformations into legendary figures in professional wrestling.

The Lingering Question: Will We See a Rematch for the Ages?

The enduring legacy of their initial encounters and the subsequent, remarkable career evolutions of both men naturally lead to the lingering question: will we ever witness another WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles match? The prospect of a ‘rematch for the ages’ is undoubtedly a dream scenario for many in the WWE Universe. Imagine the build-up: Roman Reigns, as ‘The Tribal Chief’ and the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, embodying an almost insurmountable force, facing off against AJ Styles, the seasoned veteran, still ‘The Phenomenal One’, seeking to dethrone the reigning king. The narrative writes itself. Styles, known for his ability to defy odds and deliver in high-pressure situations, would present a unique challenge to Reigns’ nearly three-year-long championship reign. The stakes would be incredibly high, not just for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, but for the legacy of both performers. Could Styles be the one to finally crack the impervious armor of ‘The Head of the Table’? Or would Reigns once again prove why he sits at the pinnacle of sports entertainment, further cementing his historic run?

Such a match would likely be a main event at one of WWE’s biggest premium live events, potentially WrestleMania or SummerSlam, given the magnitude of the participants. The storytelling leading up to it could incorporate their shared history, with Reigns perhaps dismissing Styles as a relic of the past, while Styles would aim to prove that experience and raw talent can still overcome sheer dominance. The in-ring dynamic would be fascinating to watch, with both men having refined their arsenes and ring psychology. Reigns, now more methodical and brutal, would look to dismantle Styles with calculated precision, while Styles, still agile but perhaps relying more on his veteran instincts, would aim to expose any chinks in ‘The Tribal Chief’s’ armor. Fans would be captivated by every moment, eager to see if Styles could hit the Styles Clash on the much heavier Reigns, or if a single Spear from Reigns would be enough to end ‘The Phenomenal One’s’ challenge. The potential for external interference from The Bloodline would also add another layer of drama, forcing Styles to not only contend with Reigns but also his formidable family. While there are no immediate plans announced for WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles, the possibility remains a captivating ‘what if’ in professional wrestling. The universal desire for this rematch underscores the lasting impact of their original rivalry and the unparalleled star power of both Roman Reigns and AJ Styles. For now, fans can only hope that the stars align to bring this dream match to fruition, offering another unforgettable chapter in the storied careers of these two truly iconic WWE Superstars.

The Enduring Legacy of an Iconic Rivalry

The storied encounters between Roman Reigns and AJ Styles represent a chapter in WWE history that continues to resonate with fans, proving to be far more than just a series of championship matches. Their rivalry in 2016, though relatively brief in terms of prolonged storytelling, was impactful enough to solidify both men as top-tier talents and demonstrate their incredible ability to deliver main event spectacles. The contrast in their wrestling styles – Reigns’ power and intensity against Styles’ athleticism and technical wizardry – created an undeniable chemistry that produced instant classics. These matches were not just about who won or lost; they were about the journey, the struggle, and the incredible performances that both Superstars put forth, showcasing the very best of what modern professional wrestling has to offer. The enduring quality of their bouts is a testament to their individual skills and their shared ability to connect with a global audience, drawing them into every near fall and every high-impact maneuver.

Looking back, the WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles rivalry served as a crucial stepping stone in the careers of both individuals. For AJ Styles, it cemented his status as a legitimate main event player in WWE, proving that his ‘phenomenal’ reputation preceded him and that he could go toe-to-toe with the company’s biggest stars. For Roman Reigns, these matches were vital in establishing his reign as champion, demonstrating his resilience and ability to overcome top-tier challenges, even if his character was still polarizing at the time. Today, with Roman Reigns having evolved into ‘The Tribal Chief’ and arguably the most dominant force in WWE history, and AJ Styles continuing his run as a respected veteran and multiple-time champion, the thought of a rematch carries an even greater weight. It’s a clash that would pit two legends, in different phases of their careers but still at the peak of their abilities, against each other. The legacy of Roman Reigns and AJ Styles is defined by their consistent excellence, their ability to evolve, and their unwavering commitment to delivering compelling stories in the ring. Their original rivalry remains a highlight, a benchmark for intensity and athleticism, and a tantalizing reminder of the magic that can happen when two of the very best step into the squared circle. As time goes on, the question of ‘what if’ and ‘when’ a rematch might occur only grows stronger, ensuring that the legendary WWE Roman Reigns vs AJ Styles rivalry will forever be discussed as one of the modern era’s most compelling pairings.