Lisbon, Portugal – AJ Styles, a cornerstone of professional wrestling for over two decades, recently reflected on his illustrious career, pinpointing a few dream matchups that, for various reasons, never materialized. Speaking on the Talk’n Shop Podcast, the former WWE Champion expressed a desire to have shared the ring with both Penta El Zero Miedo and the legendary Rey Mysterio. This revelation offers a glimpse into the mind of a performer who has consistently delivered captivating matches against some of the industry’s biggest stars and highlights the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling where opportunities don’t always align.
Styles, known for his phenomenal in-ring ability and captivating charisma, has consistently proven himself as a top talent in both WWE and previously in promotions like TNA (now Impact Wrestling) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. His journey to the top has been marked by memorable rivalries and championship reigns, but even for a veteran of his caliber, certain encounters remain elusive. The discussion centered on the dynamic nature of professional wrestling and the inherent challenges in creating dream matches due to scheduling conflicts, promotional differences, and the unpredictable nature of the business. The conversation underscores the collaborative, yet often fragmented, nature of the wrestling world.
The Unfulfilled Match with Penta El Zero Miedo
One name that repeatedly surfaced in Styles’ reflections was Penta El Zero Miedo, the charismatic and highly skilled luchador currently competing in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Styles specifically praised Penta’s talent and personality, stating he would have “loved to been able to do that.” Penta, whose real name is Pentagón Jr., has garnered a significant following for his intense style and captivating presence, becoming a prominent figure in the modern wrestling scene. He is a former AEW World Trios Champion, alongside Rey Fenix and PAC, and has consistently delivered high-impact performances. As reported by WWE.com in May 2025, Styles and Penta did team up to battle The Judgment Day, hinting at a potential rivalry that could have blossomed into a singles contest.
The potential for a match between Styles and Penta is particularly intriguing given their contrasting styles. Styles, known for his technical prowess and innovative offense, would likely have engaged Penta in a fast-paced, high-octane contest. Penta’s signature moves, including the Package Piledriver, and his aggressive style would have presented a unique challenge for Styles. The clash of styles, combined with the personalities of both performers, could have resulted in a truly memorable encounter. The fact that they have already collaborated in a tag team match suggests a level of respect and chemistry that could have translated into a compelling singles rivalry.
A Missed Opportunity with Rey Mysterio
Beyond Penta, Styles also expressed regret over never having the opportunity to face Rey Mysterio, a true icon of professional wrestling. Mysterio, a pioneer of the high-flying lucha libre style, has captivated audiences for over three decades with his innovative moves and captivating persona. He is a multi-time WWE Champion and a Grand Slam Champion, solidifying his place as one of the most decorated performers in wrestling history. Styles described Mysterio as “freaking great,” emphasizing the respect he holds for the veteran performer.
A match between Styles and Mysterio would have represented a clash of generations and styles. Mysterio, known for his aerial acrobatics and innovative offense, would have presented a unique challenge for Styles, who is renowned for his technical skills and precision. The contrast in styles, combined with the star power of both performers, could have created a truly special moment for wrestling fans. The potential for a passing-of-the-torch narrative, with Styles challenging the established legend, would have added another layer of intrigue to the matchup.
The Importance of Mentorship and Open Communication
The conversation with Styles extended beyond potential dream matches, delving into the importance of mentorship and open communication within the wrestling industry. Styles emphasized the need for experienced performers to guide younger talent, encouraging them to ask questions and seek advice. He recounted a recent experience taking his son to an independent wrestling show, noting how his son’s unfamiliarity with certain moves highlighted the importance of explaining the nuances of the business to new fans.
Styles articulated that even seasoned professionals sometimes lose sight of the perspective of a new fan. He used the example of a simple “up and over” maneuver, explaining that it only makes sense within the context of the preceding action, such as being thrown into the corner and having one’s “guts torn out” by a shoulder. This anecdote underscores the importance of storytelling and building anticipation in professional wrestling, ensuring that even seemingly simple moves have meaning and impact. He stressed that there are “no wrong questions” for newcomers, emphasizing that a willingness to learn and seek clarification is crucial for success in the industry. This sentiment reflects a broader trend within professional wrestling towards greater collaboration and knowledge-sharing among performers.
Styles’ comments highlight a crucial aspect of professional wrestling often overlooked by casual fans: the intricate storytelling and the importance of understanding the psychology behind the moves. A successful wrestling match isn’t just about athletic ability. it’s about creating a compelling narrative that resonates with the audience. By encouraging younger wrestlers to ask questions and seek guidance, Styles is contributing to the continued evolution and improvement of the art form.
Looking Ahead: The Evolving Landscape of Professional Wrestling
The wrestling landscape continues to evolve, with promotions like WWE and AEW vying for viewership and talent. WWE, currently streaming its flagship program, Monday Night Raw, on Netflix, as reported by WWE.com in May 2025, is adapting to the changing media consumption habits of fans. AEW, founded in 2019, has quickly established itself as a major competitor, offering a different style of wrestling and a platform for emerging talent. The competition between these promotions benefits fans by providing a wider range of options and fostering innovation within the industry.
While dream matches may not always come to fruition, the possibility remains a driving force for performers like AJ Styles. His reflections on potential encounters with Penta El Zero Miedo and Rey Mysterio serve as a reminder of the countless possibilities within the world of professional wrestling and the enduring appeal of this unique form of entertainment. The ongoing evolution of the industry, coupled with the dedication of performers like Styles, ensures that the pursuit of dream matches will continue to captivate fans for years to come.
The WWE Elimination Chamber event, held in February 2026, showcased several key storylines and matches, including highlights available on the WWE Network. WWE.com also featured coverage of the event, including top moments and match recaps.
As the professional wrestling world looks towards WrestleMania 42, the anticipation for future storylines and potential matchups continues to build. The industry’s ability to adapt and innovate, combined with the passion of its performers and fans, ensures that the spectacle will continue to thrive.
What dream matches would you like to see in the future? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow wrestling fans!