AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura Added to SNME– A Clash of Legends!
The iconic WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event special has added a dream matchup: AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura. This high-stakes singles bout is set for tomorrow night (January 25, 2026), serving as a key test for AJ Styles ahead of his high-risk career-threatening clash with Gunther at the upcoming Royal Rumble.
In a tense backstage confrontation on SmackDown, Nakamura challenged Styles directly:
“You’re smart, calculated. So, tell me, why are you willing to lose everything?”
AJ fired back:
“What are you talking about? I don’t step up to Gunther now, then I’ve already lost. Is this not what this is all about?”
Nakamura then upped the ante:
“Well, before you step in the ring with him, prove you are still phenomenal. Tomorrow night, Saturday Night’s Main Event, me vs. you.”
The Rich History Between AJ Styles and Shinsuke Nakamura
These two global superstars have a storied rivalry that dates back years before their WWE days. Their paths first crossed in epic fashion in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW):
• At Wrestle Kingdom 10 (January 4, 2016, Tokyo Dome), Nakamura defended the IWGP Intercontinental Championship against Styles in their first-ever singles encounter.
It was a technical masterpiece—Nakamura retained after a series of brutal strikes and near-falls, including iconic Boma Ye knees. Fans still call it one of the best matches of the 2010s, with both men at the peak of their powers.
After both signed with WWE, the dream rematch finally happened on the biggest stage
• WrestleMania 34 (2018): AJ Styles defended the WWE Championship against Nakamura after Shinsuke won the Men’s Royal Rumble. The buildup was massive—fans had been clamoring for it since their Money in the Bank ladder spot in 2017 where the crowd erupted just from them staring each other down.
Unfortunately, the match itself underdelivered due to pacing and finish issues (Styles retained), leading to a heel turn for Nakamura and some infamous low-blow spots in rematches. It remains one of the most debated “what could have been” bouts in WrestleMania history.
Their styles complement perfectly: Styles’ high-flying athleticism and technical prowess vs. Nakamura’s hard-hitting strikes, charisma, and “Kinshasa” knee strikes. When they’re both on, it’s magic—expect fireworks this Saturday as they reignite that chemistry.
This addition elevates Saturday Night’s Main Event even further. Will Styles prove he’s ready for Gunther, or will Nakamura steal the show and shift the spotlight? Tune in—it’s must-see WWE action!
