AJ Styles And The Bullet Club: A History
The Bullet Club, a name synonymous with rebellion, unmatched in-ring skills, and a global takeover of professional wrestling, holds a special place in wrestling history. While many incredible athletes have passed through its ranks, AJ Styles's tenure undoubtedly stands out. Let's dive into the fascinating story of AJ Styles and his time with the Bullet Club, exploring how this alliance impacted his career and the wrestling world at large.
The Phenomenal One Joins the Fray
Before AJ Styles became synonymous with WWE, captivating audiences on Monday Night Raw and SmackDown, he was making waves across the globe. A cornerstone of TNA (now Impact Wrestling) for many years, Styles sought new challenges and opportunities to further cement his legacy. This quest led him to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), a promotion renowned for its strong style, intense matches, and passionate fanbase. It was in NJPW that AJ Styles's path converged with the Bullet Club, forever altering the course of his career and the group's trajectory.
In 2014, at the New Beginning event, the wrestling world watched in shock as AJ Styles made his debut in NJPW, aligning himself with the notorious Bullet Club. This wasn't just any debut; it was a statement. The Bullet Club, already a dominant force led by Prince Devitt (who would later become Finn Balor in WWE), was known for its rule-breaking antics, disregard for tradition, and sheer dominance. Styles immediately stepped into a leadership role, replacing Devitt, who was departing for WWE. This transition was seamless, with Styles embodying the Bullet Club's rebellious spirit while adding his own unique flair. His arrival injected a new level of excitement into the group, solidifying their position as the top heel stable in NJPW. He wasn't just joining a group; he was taking the reins of a movement.
AJ Styles's leadership brought a different dynamic to the Bullet Club. While Devitt's leadership was characterized by a more mischievous and cunning approach, Styles brought a sense of calculated aggression and unwavering confidence. He was a leader who led by example, consistently delivering stellar performances in the ring and backing up his words with action. His in-ring prowess was undeniable, and he quickly adapted to the NJPW style, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. From high-flying maneuvers to technical wrestling clinics, Styles proved that he was a force to be reckoned with, regardless of the promotion or opponent.
The Bullet Club, under Styles's leadership, continued its reign of terror in NJPW. They interfered in matches, disrespected authority, and wreaked havoc wherever they went. But beneath the chaos and rule-breaking, there was a clear sense of unity and camaraderie within the group. They were a band of brothers, bound together by their shared goals and rebellious spirit. This sense of brotherhood was evident in their interactions both inside and outside the ring, making them a formidable and compelling force.
Reign as Leader and IWGP Heavyweight Champion
AJ Styles's leadership of the Bullet Club wasn't just about attitude and presence; it was also about championships. Shortly after joining, he set his sights on the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, the most prestigious title in NJPW. His pursuit of the championship was relentless, and he faced some of the top stars in the promotion, including Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi. These matches were nothing short of epic, showcasing Styles's ability to hang with the best in the world.
In 2015, AJ Styles achieved the pinnacle of success in NJPW, defeating Kazuchika Okada to become the IWGP Heavyweight Champion. This victory was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and undeniable talent. It also solidified his position as the leader of the Bullet Club and one of the top wrestlers in the world. Holding the IWGP Heavyweight Championship elevated Styles to a new level of stardom, further expanding his fanbase and increasing his marketability. He was no longer just a great wrestler; he was a world champion, a leader, and a symbol of excellence.
Styles's reign as IWGP Heavyweight Champion was marked by a series of memorable matches and intense rivalries. He defended the title against some of the top contenders in NJPW, including Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tetsuya Naito. Each match was a showcase of his incredible athleticism, technical prowess, and unwavering determination. He consistently delivered outstanding performances, proving that he was a worthy champion. His matches were not just about winning or losing; they were about telling a story, captivating the audience, and leaving a lasting impression.
During his time as champion, Styles continued to embody the Bullet Club's rebellious spirit. He often used underhanded tactics to gain an advantage, and he wasn't afraid to bend the rules. However, he always did so with a sense of charisma and swagger, making him a compelling and entertaining villain. He embraced his role as the bad guy, and he relished the opportunity to get under the skin of the fans. His ability to generate heat and provoke a reaction was a key factor in his success as a heel champion.
While Styles's run with the IWGP Heavyweight Championship was relatively short, it was incredibly impactful. He left a lasting legacy in NJPW, and he helped to elevate the promotion to new heights. His matches were praised by critics and fans alike, and he helped to introduce NJPW to a wider audience. His time as champion was a testament to his talent and his ability to connect with fans, regardless of their background or location.
The Fallout and Departure
As with any great story, AJ Styles's time with the Bullet Club eventually came to an end. In early 2016, rumors began to circulate that Styles was considering a move to WWE. These rumors were fueled by his increasing popularity and the growing interest in his services from various promotions. Ultimately, Styles decided to make the jump to WWE, leaving the Bullet Club and NJPW behind.
His departure from the Bullet Club was not without its drama. The group initially acted as if they were going to attack him but turned on then member Kenny Omega. This turn of events was a shock to many fans, and it marked a significant shift in the Bullet Club's leadership. Kenny Omega, who had been a prominent member of the group, stepped up to fill the void left by Styles, ushering in a new era for the stable. Omega's leadership brought a different flavor to the Bullet Club, with a greater emphasis on comedy and over-the-top antics.
AJ Styles's departure from the Bullet Club marked the end of an era for both him and the group. He went on to achieve even greater success in WWE, winning multiple championships and solidifying his status as one of the top wrestlers in the world. The Bullet Club, under the leadership of Kenny Omega and subsequent leaders, continued to thrive in NJPW and beyond, expanding its reach and influence across the globe. Both Styles and the Bullet Club have left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling, and their paths will forever be intertwined.
Even though AJ Styles has moved on to other ventures, his time with the Bullet Club remains a significant chapter in his career. It was a period of growth, success, and innovation. He helped to elevate the Bullet Club to new heights, and they, in turn, helped to elevate him. Their partnership was a perfect storm of talent, charisma, and rebellion, and it produced some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.
The Legacy
The impact of AJ Styles's time with the Bullet Club extends far beyond championships and match results. It's about the influence he had on the wrestling world, the fans he inspired, and the legacy he left behind. His time with the Bullet Club helped to solidify his status as one of the top wrestlers in the world, and it opened doors for him to achieve even greater success in WWE. It also helped to popularize NJPW and the Bullet Club among a wider audience, paving the way for other international stars to make a name for themselves.
AJ Styles's leadership of the Bullet Club helped to shape the group's identity and solidify its position as one of the most influential stables in wrestling history. He brought a sense of credibility and legitimacy to the group, and he helped to elevate its profile on a global scale. His in-ring performances were consistently outstanding, and he always delivered a compelling and entertaining product. He was a true leader, both inside and outside the ring, and he inspired his fellow Bullet Club members to reach their full potential.
The Bullet Club, even after Styles's departure, continued to evolve and adapt, remaining a dominant force in professional wrestling. The group has spawned numerous offshoots and imitators, and its influence can be seen in wrestling promotions all over the world. The Bullet Club has become more than just a wrestling stable; it's a brand, a movement, and a symbol of rebellion and individuality. And AJ Styles played a significant role in shaping that legacy.
In conclusion, AJ Styles's time with the Bullet Club was a pivotal moment in his career and in the history of professional wrestling. It was a time of growth, success, and innovation, and it left a lasting legacy that continues to be felt today. AJ Styles and the Bullet Club: a phenomenal combination that will forever be remembered by wrestling fans around the world. Guys, it was awesome, wasn't it?