AJ Styles Says WWE Stars Like Naraku SHOULD Start In NXT First — And His Reason Has Fans Talking

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AJ Styles Says WWE Stars Like Naraku SHOULD Start In NXT First — And His Reason Has Fans Talking

AJ Styles says 'it's important' for talents like Naraku to start WWE run with NXTAJ Styles recently shared his thoughts on why international wrestling stars such as Naraku benefit from beginning their WWE careers in WWE NXT instead of debuting directly on the main roster.

Naraku officially made his WWE debut on the April 28 episode of NXT, confronting Tony D’Angelo in a segment where commentary referenced him as a “former IWGP Champion.” Reports before his signing indicated that Naraku himself preferred starting in NXT to adapt to WWE’s style and production system before moving to RAW or SmackDown.

Speaking on The Phenomenally Retro Podcast, Styles explained that even accomplished international stars often need time to adjust to WWE’s unique presentation style, using Shinsuke Nakamura as a major example.

“Shinsuke Nakamura was also in NXT. I’m just throwing that out there,” Styles said.

AJ Styles Speaks on Why NXT is Vital Step When Transitioning to WWEStyles noted that despite Nakamura spending nearly 14 years in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, WWE still believed time in NXT was important to help him adapt to the company’s system.

According to Styles, WWE’s production style is very different from wrestling promotions in Japan, especially regarding camera work, timing, and how performers interact with television presentation.

“There’s certain things that we all need to learn in NXT that will prepare us for the main roster,” Styles explained.

The former WWE Champion admitted he personally had to learn quickly after joining the company because he debuted directly on the main roster in 2016.

“I had to learn quick because I was on there. I couldn’t afford to screw up,” he said.

WWE SmackDown Live REVIEW: Full Results, Grades & Highlights for 02/20/18 - Cultured VulturesStyles emphasized that WWE talents must understand camera positioning and television production — areas that are handled differently in Japan compared to WWE.

“Because you don’t do that in Japan. There’s no producers in Japan,” Styles explained. “It was treated more like a sport.”

He added that his previous experience in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling helped him adjust faster because he already understood how to work for television cameras before arriving in WWE.

Styles ultimately believes starting in NXT creates a smoother transition for international stars rather than forcing them to learn WWE’s system while already performing weekly on the main roster.

Outside the ring, Naraku also made headlines recently after he and IYO SKY announced their wedding on social media last weekend.

5/21/2026

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