A.J. Styles: Childhood and Early Life
A.J. Styles, born Allen Neal Jones on June 2, 1977, in North Carolina, USA, is one of professional wrestling’s most accomplished and revered figures. Known for his incredible in-ring skills and high-flying style, Styles has captivated audiences around the world.1
However, his journey to wrestling stardom was far from easy. Growing up in poverty with an alcoholic and abusive father, Styles’s early life was marked by hardship and struggle. Here’s a deeper look into his childhood and early life, focusing on his challenging upbringing and the path that eventually led him to professional wrestling.
Table of Contents
A Challenging Childhood
A.J. Styles’s childhood was filled with difficulties and adversity. He grew up in poverty in North Carolina, with an alcoholic father who was abusive towards his family. Styles has described his early years as “worse than hell,” recounting the hardships and fear that accompanied his father’s behavior.
This tumultuous environment had a profound impact on Styles, shaping his outlook on life and his relationship with his father.
Wrestling School and Discovering a Passion
- Despite his challenging upbringing, Styles found a way to channel his energy and emotions. While still in school, he entered a wrestling school, initially as a joke, because his friends were trying it out.
- At first, he didn’t take it seriously, but as he spent more time in the ring, wrestling grew on him. It became an outlet for him, allowing him to express himself and escape from the harsh realities of his home life.
- Styles’s natural athleticism and wrestling prowess earned him a scholarship to attend a college in South Carolina.
- This opportunity provided him with a path to pursue his passion for wrestling while also securing an education. However, the journey was far from straightforward, and Styles had to work hard to sustain himself.
Early Struggles and Odd Jobs
In the early stages of his career, Styles faced numerous challenges. To make ends meet while pursuing his wrestling career, he took on various odd jobs, such as driving and supplying water to houses.2
These jobs helped him earn a living, but they also highlighted the uncertain path he was on as he pursued his dream of becoming a professional wrestler.
Also Read: Major WWE Star Defies Management, Attacks AJ Styles on SmackDown
A.J. Styles’s Early Professional Wrestling Career: From Mr. Olympia to NWA Wildside
A.J. Styles, born Allen Neal Jones, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and innovative professional wrestlers in the modern era.
Before he became a household name in major promotions like TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) and WWE, Styles built his career in the independent wrestling scene, showcasing his skills and developing his signature high-flying style. Here’s a closer look at Styles’s early professional wrestling career, from his debut as Mr. Olympia to his rise in NWA Wildside.
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Training and Debut
A.J. Styles was trained by Rick Michaels, a well-known professional wrestler and trainer. Styles made his wrestling debut in 1998, competing in the Georgia-based National Championship Wrestling (NCW) promotion under the ring name Mr. Olympia.
His first singles match ended in a loss to Michael Brooks, but it marked the beginning of a journey that would eventually lead him to the top of the wrestling world.
Early Career in NCW and Transition to NWA Wildside
- As Mr. Olympia, Styles wrestled as a masked character, slowly gaining recognition within the Georgia independent wrestling scene.3
- By August 1999, he had won the promotion’s Television Championship, indicating his growing skills and popularity. This early success was a stepping stone to more significant opportunities in the wrestling world.
- In December 1999, NCW merged with NWA Georgia to form NWA Wildside, a more prominent independent wrestling promotion.
- With this merger, Styles was renamed A.J. Styles, the name that would become synonymous with his career. During this period, he continued to hone his craft, competing in various independent promotions and building a reputation as a rising talent.
Competing in Independent Promotions
From 1999 to 2001, A.J. Styles competed in several lesser-known independent promotions, gaining experience and developing his wrestling style. He was known for his agility, athleticism, and innovative moves, which set him apart from other wrestlers.
His work in these independent promotions helped him establish a strong foundation, preparing him for future opportunities in larger promotions.
AJ Styles’s Family: A Close-Knit Bond with His Wife and Children
AJ Styles, born Allen Neal Jones, is a renowned professional wrestler known for his success in TNA Wrestling and WWE. Beyond the wrestling ring, Styles is a devoted family man, married to Wendy Jones since 2000.
Together, they have built a family filled with love and support, raising four children in the process. Here’s a closer look at AJ Styles’s wife, their relationship, and their family life.
Marriage to Wendy Jones
AJ Styles and Wendy Jones married in 2000, a significant year for Styles as he was just beginning his journey in professional wrestling. Wendy was born in 1978 in North Carolina, United States, and works as a high school teacher. Her background in education provides a stable foundation for the family, complementing Styles’s career in professional wrestling.
Happy Birthday AJ Styles, he turns 45 today 🎈 pic.twitter.com/V27hb1QrKD
— WrestlingWorldCC (@WrestlingWCC) June 2, 2022
The couple’s long-standing marriage is a testament to their strong bond and commitment to each other. Despite the hectic and demanding schedule of a professional wrestler, Styles has often spoken about the importance of family in his life. Wendy’s support has been instrumental in helping him navigate the challenges of his wrestling career.
Children and Family Life
- AJ Styles and Wendy Jones have four children: three sons and one daughter. Their first son, Ajay Covell Jones, was born on May 3, 2005.
- His middle name, “Covell,” is a tribute to Styles’s close friend Daniell Covell, also known by his wrestling name Christopher Daniels.
- This naming choice reflects the deep connections Styles has within the wrestling community.
- Their second son, Avery Jones, was born on February 14, 2007, followed by their third son, Albey Jones, born on September 15, 2009.
- The couple’s youngest child and only daughter, Anney Jones, was born on October 8, 2014. The family enjoys spending time together, and Styles often shares moments from their life on social media, showing a glimpse into their close-knit bond.
Balancing Family and Wrestling
As a professional wrestler, AJ Styles’s career demands significant time on the road and away from home. Despite these challenges, he has found ways to maintain a strong connection with his family.
Styles’s commitment to balancing his wrestling career with family life is evident in his dedication to being present for his children’s important moments and milestones.
Also Read: Millionaire 4-Time Champion Didnt Need WWE, Says Vince Russo, His Bio And More
AJ Styles’s Net Worth in 2024: A Detailed Overview
AJ Styles, born Allen Neal Jones, is a renowned professional wrestler known for his exceptional in-ring skills and high-flying style. Throughout his career, he has wrestled for various promotions around the world, establishing himself as one of the most successful and respected figures in professional wrestling.
As of 2024, AJ Styles’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million, a testament to his talent and hard work. Here’s a comprehensive look at how Styles has accumulated his wealth and what contributes to his net worth.
Wrestling Career and Earnings
- AJ Styles’s primary source of income is his wrestling career, which spans over two decades. He has competed in multiple wrestling promotions, including TNA Wrestling, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), Ring of Honor (ROH), and WWE.
- His work across these promotions has not only earned him respect among fans and peers but also significant financial rewards.
- Styles’s current contract with WWE plays a significant role in his net worth. According to reports from Fightful and Wrestling Observer Newsletter, his contract with WWE has the potential to earn him around $3 million per year.
- This substantial salary reflects WWE’s recognition of Styles’s career success and his value to the company. Additionally, WWE’s competitive contract offers aim to retain top talent like Styles, who might otherwise receive offers from other promotions.
Endorsements and Other Income Sources
In addition to his WWE contract, AJ Styles has likely earned income from various endorsements and merchandise sales. As one of WWE’s most popular wrestlers, he has a significant fan following, which translates to strong merchandise sales.
WWE’s revenue-sharing model for merchandise allows top stars like Styles to earn a percentage of the sales generated by their branded products, further contributing to his overall net worth.
A.J. Styles’s Personal Life: Family, Marriage, and Reflections on Childhood
A.J. Styles, the accomplished professional wrestler, has achieved remarkable success in the ring, but his personal life is equally important to him. Married to his high school girlfriend, Wendy, since 2000, Styles is a devoted husband and father to three sons and a daughter.
His journey from a challenging childhood to a successful wrestling career reflects resilience and dedication. Here’s an in-depth look at Styles’s personal life, his family, and his reflections on growing up in poverty.
Tattoos and Symbolism
To express his love for his children, Styles has a large tattoo on his torso, featuring the initials “AJ” and the birthdates of his children. This tattoo serves as a permanent reminder of the most important people in his life, reflecting his deep connection to his family.
Styles’s commitment to his role as a father and husband is a central aspect of his personal life, and the tattoo is a meaningful way to symbolize that connection.
Reflections on Childhood and Growing Up in Poverty
- Styles has spoken openly about his challenging childhood and the poverty he experienced while growing up in North Carolina.
- He once admitted in an interview that his family couldn’t afford a television, so he would watch wrestling matches at his friends’ houses. These experiences shaped his perspective on life and instilled in him a sense of gratitude and determination.
- Despite the hardships of his early life, Styles found his passion in wrestling and used it as a way to overcome adversity. His journey from a difficult childhood to becoming a successful professional wrestler demonstrates his resilience and perseverance.
- Styles’s reflections on his past highlight his appreciation for the opportunities he has had and his commitment to providing a better life for his family.
FAQ’S
1. Who is AJ Styles?
Ans: AJ Styles, whose real name is Allen Neal Jones, is a professional wrestler known for his work in various wrestling promotions, including WWE, TNA/Impact Wrestling, and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). He’s renowned for his high-flying style, technical prowess, and adaptability in the ring.
2. How old is AJ Styles?
Ans: AJ Styles was born on June 2, 1977, making him 46 years old as of 2023. Despite his age, he remains one of the top performers in WWE, known for his athleticism and consistent in-ring performances.
3. What is AJ Styles’ career background?
Ans: AJ Styles began his wrestling career in the late 1990s, gaining prominence in TNA/Impact Wrestling, where he became a multiple-time World Champion. He also had a successful stint in NJPW, where he won the IWGP Heavyweight Championship. In 2016, Styles joined WWE, quickly becoming a top star and winning multiple WWE Championships.
4. Who is AJ Styles’ wife?
Ans: AJ Styles is married to Wendy Jones, his high school sweetheart. They married in 2000 and have four children together. Despite his high-profile career, Styles keeps his personal life private and often speaks about the importance of family.
5. What is AJ Styles’ net worth?
Ans: AJ Styles’ net worth is estimated to be between $6 million and $8 million. His income comes from his WWE contract, merchandise sales, and other wrestling-related ventures. Styles’ net worth reflects his long and successful career in professional wrestling, spanning multiple promotions and continents.
