In the world of professional wrestling, the art of match production is often an overlooked aspect, yet it plays a crucial role in the overall experience for fans. Enter AJ Styles, a WWE Hall of Famer and a master of his craft, who recently shared his insights into the process of producing a match between Grayson Waller and Cruz Montana on WWE NXT.
The Art of Producing
AJ Styles, in his retirement, has taken on the role of a match producer, a job that allows him to guide and shape the action in the ring. In his own words, he described it as a role where he didn't have to "overextend" himself, indicating a level of trust and respect for the wrestlers involved.
"These guys are pros. They know what they're doing," Styles said, highlighting the skill and experience of Waller and Montana. This trust in the wrestlers' abilities is a key aspect of match production, allowing the producer to step back and let the athletes showcase their talent.
The Pros in Action
What makes this match particularly fascinating is the dynamic between Waller and Montana. Styles praised Waller's heel work, a style of wrestling where the performer plays the role of the villain, often with a strong, aggressive attitude. Waller's "I'm gonna tell you what I think" persona is a classic heel tactic, and Styles appreciates the authenticity it brings to the performance.
The match itself was a showcase of hard-hitting action, with visible bruises and boot marks on the wrestlers' bodies. This level of intensity is a testament to the skill and dedication of the performers, and it's a style that AJ Styles admires.
Uncertain Outcomes
Despite the impressive display, the match ended in a non-finish due to outside interference. This unexpected twist adds an element of unpredictability to the NXT Championship picture. The original plan was for the winner of Waller vs. Montana to challenge champion Tony D'Angelo, but now the future of the title match is uncertain.
This raises a deeper question about the role of match producers. While Styles emphasized that he was there to help, not to dictate the outcome, the interference adds a layer of complexity. It shows how producers must navigate the fine line between guiding the action and allowing the story to unfold organically.
A Producer's Perspective
From my perspective, AJ Styles' insights offer a unique glimpse into the world of match production. It's a role that requires a deep understanding of the wrestlers' abilities and a delicate balance between guidance and freedom. Styles' admiration for the performers' skills and his appreciation of the heel work showcase his expertise and his ability to recognize and encourage authentic performances.
The unexpected twist at the end of the match adds an intriguing layer to the story, leaving fans and producers alike wondering about the future of the NXT Championship. It's a reminder that, in the world of professional wrestling, even the best-laid plans can be upended, and it's the producer's job to adapt and guide the story forward.
In conclusion, AJ Styles' role as a match producer on WWE NXT highlights the importance and complexity of this often-overlooked aspect of professional wrestling. It's a role that requires a unique set of skills and a deep understanding of the performers, and it's a role that Styles seems to have mastered.
