AJ Styles Suggests Hall of Fame Shouldn’t Happen Every Year Ahead of His Own 2026 Induction

AJ Styles is heading into the WWE Hall of Fame this weekend as part of the 2026 class — and he has a suggestion about the event that might raise a few eyebrows given the timing. Speaking on his Phenomenally Retro podcast, Styles proposed that the Hall of Fame could benefit from being held every other year rather than annually, arguing that the reduced frequency would make it a more special occasion.

“I really believe we could probably do the Hall of Fame every other year, or maybe put some years in between and make it more special. I think it’s going to be really difficult to do this every year,” Styles said. He also addressed the well-documented issue of the ceremony’s length, which has been a recurring criticism given that it takes place after SmackDown. “Do we need it to go that long? I don’t know that we need to. I’m sure they give these guys times — ‘No longer than 30 minutes.’ An hour and a half later, ‘Alright, wrapping it up.'”

AJ Styles Admits He Will Probably Talk Longer Than He Plans Once He Gets Up to the Podium

Styles showed self-awareness about his own likely behavior once the moment arrives. “I understand it. I’m sure once I get up there, I’m thinking, ‘This won’t be long,’ but then you’ll talk about things that are important to you.” He is inducted alongside Stephanie McMahon, Demolition, Dennis Rodman, Sycho Sid, and Bad News Brown. The 2026 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony airs at midnight Eastern on Friday, hosted by The Miz and Michael Cole at Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.