AJ Styles, a standout figure in TNA Wrestling history, officially returned to TNA at Slammiversary 2025, marking his first live appearance for the company in more than a decade. His return was heavily teased throughout the week, culminating in official confirmation by TNA President Carlos Silva. This return is viewed as both a celebration of Styles’ legacy and a boost to TNA’s ongoing collaboration with WWE, as the event features both TNA and WWE NXT talent.
On social media, Frankie Kazarian commented on Styles’ return to TNA ahead of tonight’s Slammiversary 2025. Kazarian branded himself the “new king of TNA” during Styles’ absence, writing:
“This is all well and good. But. Someone should probably smarten my dear friend @AJStylesOrg up to the fact that there is a new king who sits atop @ThisIsTNA. Welcome back kid #KingofTNA #Slammiversary.”
Kazarian and Styles faced each other many times during their time in TNA before Styles’ departure in 2014. Styles’ appearance at Slammiversary has ignited speculation about whether he will have another run with the company or set up a major storyline, potentially leading to a future match.
Hours before his return, Styles published a personal message reflecting on his journey, faith, and emotional reconnection with the TNA audience. He shared advice he would give his younger self, focusing on resilience, humility, and the divine timing of his career’s ups and downs. Styles’ language, “You’re not just phenomenal. You’re built for this.” resonated deeply with fans, many of whom see his return as symbolic of TNA’s resurgence.
This is all well and good. But. Someone should probably smarten my dear friend @AJStylesOrg up to the fact that there is a new king who sits atop @ThisIsTNA Welcome back kid 😉 #KingofTNA #Slammiversary https://t.co/15AocE2enY
— 👑 Frankie Kazarian 👑 (@FrankieKazarian) July 20, 2025