AJ Styles Reacts to WWE Releasing New Day & Motor City Machine Guns: 'Was It a Smart Move?' (2026)

The recent departures of two iconic tag teams, New Day and Motor City Machine Guns (MCMG), from WWE have sparked a lively debate within the wrestling community. AJ Styles, a renowned wrestler himself, has shared his thoughts on this development, questioning the wisdom of letting these teams go.

The Impact of Departures

Styles, in a recent podcast, expressed his admiration for both teams and their capabilities. He stated, "I don't know if it was the smartest decision letting those two tag teams go." This comment reflects a broader concern within the wrestling world about the potential loss of talent and the impact it could have on the industry.

What makes this particularly fascinating is the personal connection Styles has with some of the wrestlers involved. He has known Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin, members of MCMG, for a long time, and his relationship with Austin Creed (Xavier Woods) goes back over two decades. This adds a layer of emotion and insight to his commentary.

The Future of New Day and MCMG

While MCMG has already made their presence felt in AEW, New Day's future remains uncertain. Styles' bias towards these teams is understandable, given his personal history with them. He believes that letting them go might not have been a strategic move, especially considering their talent and popularity.

One thing that immediately stands out is the potential for these teams to thrive in new promotions. With their skills and charisma, they could bring a fresh dynamic to the wrestling landscape. However, it also raises questions about WWE's talent management strategies and the potential risks of letting go of established acts.

Broader Implications

The departures of New Day and MCMG highlight a larger trend in the wrestling industry. It's a reminder that talent is a precious resource, and the decisions made by promotions can have far-reaching consequences. In my opinion, it's a delicate balance between nurturing existing talent and fostering new stars.

This situation also prompts a deeper question about the nature of loyalty and the business side of wrestling. While wrestlers may have personal connections and biases, the industry is ultimately driven by strategic decisions. It's a fascinating insight into the complexities of sports entertainment.

Conclusion

AJ Styles' commentary on the departures of New Day and MCMG adds a human element to the discussion. It reminds us that wrestling is not just a performance but a community of individuals with deep connections. The future of these teams will undoubtedly be an exciting chapter in the wrestling world, and their impact will be felt across the industry. As we wait to see where New Day lands, the wrestling community can reflect on the broader implications of these departures and the ever-evolving landscape of sports entertainment.

AJ Styles Reacts to WWE Releasing New Day & Motor City Machine Guns: 'Was It a Smart Move?' (2026)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Prof. An Powlowski

Last Updated:

Views: 6057

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Prof. An Powlowski

Birthday: 1992-09-29

Address: Apt. 994 8891 Orval Hill, Brittnyburgh, AZ 41023-0398

Phone: +26417467956738

Job: District Marketing Strategist

Hobby: Embroidery, Bodybuilding, Motor sports, Amateur radio, Wood carving, Whittling, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Prof. An Powlowski, I am a charming, helpful, attractive, good, graceful, thoughtful, vast person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.