AJ Styles Criticizes WWE's Release of Veteran Tag Teams

AJ Styles, a Hall of Fame wrestler, voiced strong skepticism about WWE's recent roster cuts. On his podcast he questioned the decision to let The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) and the Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) go, saying he "wouldn't bet" it was a smart move and praising their experience and tag‑team psychology. Styles warned that shedding long‑standing veterans could hurt WWE’s long‑term direction, suggesting the company is shifting toward younger talent. He also noted other recent releases—including Kairi Sane, Santos Escobar, Aleister Black, Zelina Vega and the Wyatt Sicks—indicating a broader personnel overhaul.

While acknowledging his personal bias from decades of friendship with the wrestlers, Styles expressed confidence that the released talent will thrive wherever they land, and hinted that another promotion could benefit from acquiring both the tag teams and their four proven singles competitors.