Jeff Jarrett Credits AJ Styles For Modern Style

The impact of a truly legendary performer can be seen in the style of every wrestler who follows in their footsteps. Jeff Jarrett believes that AJ Styles is hugely responsible for shaping the in-ring style that exists today. The veteran promoter shared his thoughts on the career of one of his greatest proteges.

While speaking with the Undisputed media outlet, Jarrett expressed how happy he is for Styles following his retirement from the ring. The two worked together very closely in TNA Wrestling for over a decade. Styles eventually became the biggest star that the promotion ever produced during its formative years.

Jarrett looked back fondly on the early days of their professional relationship and the risks they took. He takes a great amount of personal pride in the success of the man he helped mentor.

“I could not be happier for the guy. Getting to work with him was super special,” Jarrett stated warmly.

He recalled the creation of a specific division that fundamentally changed the perception of smaller athletes in the industry. The high-flying and athletic style became a hallmark of the company’s identity.

“It always takes me back to the creation of the X Division. At the beginning, there were so many questions and doubts about the X Division. I was adamant that it wasn’t about weight limits; it was about no limits,” he explained.

That fast-paced X-Division style has since taken over much of the entire professional wrestling industry. Jarrett believes that the retiring star deserves a lion’s share of the credit for this widespread evolution.

“Look at today’s style of wrestling–the 2026 modern style–that’s the X Division from ’03, ’04, ’05, ’06, ’07,” Jarrett detailed.

He listed several other key performers who helped pioneer the athletic approach alongside the Phenomenal One. However, he believes one name stands above the rest as the ultimate symbol of that era.

“You think of Samoa Joe, Christopher Daniels, Sonjay Dutt, and so many others. And AJ is the face of that. That’s why AJ is the face of modern wrestling,” he asserted.

The Hall of Famer feels extremely fortunate to have witnessed the star’s growth from a young prospect to a global icon. He appreciated their work together both inside the ring and behind the scenes.

“I’m super grateful to have worked with him in the ring and behind the scenes with him. I feel very blessed to be a part of AJ Styles’ career,” Jarrett ended.

Styles had his final match at the Royal Rumble 2026 event and will be officially inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. This ceremony will take place during the highly expected WrestleMania 42 weekend in Las Vegas. With his in-ring career officially over, Styles has agreed to a new contract to remain with WWE in a behind-the-scenes capacity to help guide the next generation. Meanwhile, Jarrett remains active with AEW and will be featured in a new documentary titled “The Jeff Jarrett Story: Heart of a Promoter” premiering tonight on YouTube.

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