Back before AJ Styles debuted in WWE in 2016, rumors began circulating that he was headed to the promotion. Back at this time, IMPACT Wrestling released a statement speaking about talks they had with Styles.

During an interview with Fightful, AJ Styles spoke about IMPACT releasing a statement.

“I had no idea. You just told me. I had no idea they released any kind of statement. They were the furthest thing from my mind at that point in my career. So, why would I even pay attention to it?”

AJ did acknowledge that these talks really happened.

“Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. We did have some talks about that. It’s one of those things where I got wind of Shinsuke leaving. I go, ‘Guys, I’m telling you, we might need to move on and I’m ready to get home.’ We had talks. Then I had a talk with Triple H, the ball got rolling so quick. Thank God it did.”

AJ also reminisced about Dixie Carter having AJ go to her personal beautician.

"I believe I did. I did see her -- I believe she bought me some clothes. All kinds of stuff. That hair was terrible. I agree, But in the beginning years of TNA, we’re still in the Asylum."