Report: AJ Styles Has Been Handling Duties at WWE Performance Center as NXT takeover Talk Continues

AJ Styles appears to have already taken on substantive backstage responsibilities at WWE's Performance Center, according to a recent report, a development that has intensified talk he could take a major role in NXT down the line.

Journalist Andrew Baydala wrote on X that Styles has been running things at the WWE Performance Center for several months. Baydala added that it would not be surprising if Styles moved into Shawn Michaels’ current NXT position after WrestleMania 43.

This would not be the first time Styles has worked behind the scenes. Since retiring from active competition in January 2026 and being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, he has said he filled in as a coach, produced matches and worked with younger talent at the Performance Center. Reports indicate he has also taken on production and scouting tasks.

The speculation ties into other backstage reporting about a possible reshuffle of creative duties after WrestleMania 43. Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer has reported that Michaels is the leading candidate to replace Bruce Prichard as Executive Director of Creative Writing and Talent, a move that could leave Michaels’ NXT responsibilities vacant. Industry site False Finish has likewise reported that Performance Center staff expect Styles to become more involved with NXT if Michaels is promoted.

WWE has not announced any official changes or confirmed that Styles would succeed Michaels in any capacity. For now, the accounts of Styles’ increased Performance Center activity are unconfirmed reports that add momentum to existing speculation about the company’s post-WrestleMania creative structure.

If accurate, the shift would mark a move for Styles from in-ring performer to a developmental and creative role, potentially putting him in a position to help shape NXT’s direction.