AJ Styles Faced Backstage Criticism Over Rhodes Move
AJ Styles drew heat after executing a burning hammer move on Cody Rhodes during a 2024 match in France.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Wrestling
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AJ Styles faced backstage criticism for using a burning hammer maneuver on Cody Rhodes during their 2024 match in France. Rhodes notably kicked out of the high-impact move at a count of one.
Why it matters
Styles reportedly felt the match needed a major spot to elevate crowd engagement, yet the choice sparked internal debate regarding pacing and professional safety. The incident highlights the ongoing tension between performers over match structure and execution.
Cody Rhodes survived the burning hammer maneuver at a count of 1. This singular moment occurred during a high-stakes match in France before his shift toward a triple threat opportunity.
The players
AJ Styles
He is a veteran professional wrestler known for his technical ability and long tenure in major global promotions.
Cody Rhodes
He is a prominent professional wrestler who recently vied for the WWE Championship against CM Punk at SummerSlam.
The details
Styles suggested that Rhodes execute a comeback following the maneuver, sparking discussions about the timing of such spots. The wrestlers have since discussed these pacing choices and the necessity of high-impact moments during recent podcast appearances.
Timeline
AJ Styles and Cody Rhodes wrestled in France during 2024.
Cody Rhodes will compete in a Triple Threat qualifying match on SmackDown this week.
Season Trajectory
Following his loss at the SummerSlam WWE Championship match, Rhodes now looks to secure a spot in the Money in the Bank ladder match. This trajectory underscores his ongoing quest to return to the top of the card despite the recent tactical disagreements with his opponents.
Rhodes is scheduled to face Kevin Owens and Johnny Gargano on SmackDown in a match that determines the final participant for the Money in the Bank ladder match. This outcome will finalize the field that already includes Penta, Je'Von Evans, Trick Williams, Bron Breakker, and CM Punk.
The takeaway
Performance pacing remains a central point of contention for athletes managing high-stakes matches. Readers should note that internal professional disagreements are a common part of the evolving strategies within professional wrestling.
Further reading
For more background on the industry, visit our Wrestling coverage page.
Live Poll
Do you believe wrestling maneuvers should prioritize tradition over creating a surprising moment?
