AJ Styles Clash: Rating The Best & Most Impactful

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into a move that's both iconic and controversial: AJ Styles's phenomenal Clash. This move, a modified cutter where Styles hoists his opponent upside down in a scary position before driving them face-first into the mat, has become a signature for The Phenomenal One. But with so many variations and opponents on the receiving end, it begs the question: Which AJ Styles Clash was the absolute best?

The Anatomy of the Styles Clash: More Than Just a Move

Before we get into specific matches, let's break down what makes the Styles Clash so unique and, at times, so dangerous. The move itself requires incredible strength and precision. Styles has to lift his opponent into an inverted position, maintain control, and then execute the facebuster with pinpoint accuracy. This isn't a move you can just try on anyone; the opponent needs to be the right size and have the experience to take the bump safely. This is a crucial point because the inverted position leaves the receiver vulnerable, and any slight miscalculation can lead to serious injury. Over the years, the AJ Styles Clash has been modified and adapted, showcasing AJ Styles's ingenuity and the evolving nature of pro wrestling. From the classic version to variations using the ropes or other wrestlers, the Clash has proven to be a versatile and devastating maneuver. One of the reasons why the Styles Clash resonates so strongly with fans is its visual impact. The inverted position, the sudden drop, and the resounding thud as the opponent's face hits the mat create a sense of drama and excitement. It looks like it hurts, and that's a big part of what makes wrestling moves effective. However, this visual appeal is also intertwined with the move's inherent danger. The potential for injury is always present, adding a layer of tension to every Styles Clash. This is why the execution of the move and the trust between wrestlers are paramount.

Contenders for the Crown: Memorable Styles Clashes

Now, let's get to the good stuff – the matches! There have been countless AJ Styles Clashes over the years, but some stand out more than others. We'll look at a few key examples, considering factors like the opponent, the context of the match, and the overall impact of the move. One of the most talked-about Styles Clashes is the one against Frankie Kazarian in TNA. This match is often cited as a prime example of how devastating the move can look when executed perfectly. The impact was brutal, and it solidified the Styles Clash as a legitimate finisher. Then there's the infamous incident with Lionheart (Chris Jericho) in ROH. While not a clean execution, this Clash is memorable for the controversy surrounding it and the discussion it sparked about the move's safety. The match against Samoa Joe in TNA is another standout. The intensity of the rivalry between Styles and Joe, combined with Joe's size and strength, made this Clash feel particularly impactful. These are just a few examples, and there are many other Styles Clashes that deserve consideration. Each match has its own unique context and contributes to the legacy of the move. We'll delve deeper into these examples and others to figure out what truly makes a great Styles Clash. It's not just about the move itself, but also about the story being told in the ring and the reactions of the crowd.

Styles Clash on John Cena at SummerSlam

Let's talk about that Styles Clash on John Cena at SummerSlam. Guys, this was a huge moment! Cena, the face that runs the place, taking AJ Styles's most devastating move? It was a statement. The match itself was a classic, a true back-and-forth battle between two of the best in the world. The crowd was electric, and the anticipation for the Styles Clash was palpable. When it finally happened, the arena exploded. The move looked brutal, and it added a serious layer of drama to the match. It wasn't just a move; it was a turning point. It made you believe that Styles could actually beat Cena, which was a big deal at the time. Cena is known for his resilience and his ability to kick out of anything, but the Styles Clash felt different. It felt like it could actually keep him down. The execution was spot-on, and the impact was undeniable. It was a Styles Clash that lived up to the hype, and it's definitely one of the most memorable in AJ Styles's career. But was it the best? That's what we're trying to figure out, and there are definitely other contenders. What do you guys think made this Clash so special? Was it the opponent? The stage? The overall match quality? Let's break it down further.

The Infamous Styles Clash on Lionheart (Chris Jericho)

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the Styles Clash on Lionheart, also known as Chris Jericho, in ROH. This is a controversial one, folks, and it's important to talk about it. Unlike the Cena Clash, this one wasn't clean. Jericho didn't quite get his hands down in time, and the landing looked rough. There's been a lot of debate about who was at fault and whether the move is inherently dangerous. This incident highlights the risk involved in professional wrestling and the importance of trust and communication between performers. The Styles Clash requires precise execution, and even a slight miscalculation can have serious consequences. In this case, it sparked a major discussion about the safety of the move and whether it should even be used. It also led to AJ Styles modifying the move slightly to try and make it safer. This Clash, while not visually impressive like the Cena one, is significant because of the conversation it generated. It forced wrestlers and fans to confront the risks involved in the sport and to think critically about the moves they were seeing. It's a reminder that wrestling is a performance, but it's also a physical activity with real potential for injury. So, while we might not consider this the best Styles Clash in terms of execution, it's certainly one of the most impactful and important in the move's history. It's a case study in the dangers of wrestling and the responsibility that performers have to protect each other. What are your thoughts on this incident? Do you think the Styles Clash is too dangerous?

Factors to Consider: Execution, Opponent, and the Story

So, how do we decide which AJ Styles Clash reigns supreme? It's not as simple as just picking the one that looked the most brutal. We need to consider several factors. First, there's the execution. Was the move performed flawlessly? Did both Styles and his opponent execute their roles perfectly? A clean Clash is always going to be more impressive than a sloppy one. Second, the opponent matters. A Clash on a smaller, more agile opponent might look different than one on a larger, more powerful wrestler. The opponent's ability to take the move safely and make it look impactful is crucial. Finally, the story being told in the ring plays a huge role. A Clash in the middle of a heated rivalry, with high stakes on the line, will always feel more significant than one in a throwaway match. The context of the match and the emotional investment of the fans can elevate the Clash to a whole new level. We also need to think about the long-term impact of the Clash. Did it lead to a victory? Did it change the course of a rivalry? Did it become a memorable moment that fans still talk about years later? These are all important questions to ask when evaluating the best Styles Clashes. Ultimately, it's a subjective decision, but by considering these factors, we can have a more informed discussion and appreciate the nuances of this iconic move. What other factors do you think are important?

The Verdict: Is There a Definitive "Best"?

Okay, guys, let's get down to it. Is there a definitive "best" AJ Styles Clash? Honestly, it's tough to say definitively. There are so many great examples, and each one has its own merits. The Clash on Cena at SummerSlam is a strong contender, given the context, the opponent, and the overall impact. It was a huge moment in Styles's career and a visually stunning move. But the Clash on Frankie Kazarian in TNA is also a classic, often cited as one of the most brutal-looking executions of the move. And we can't forget the controversial Clash on Lionheart, which, while not a perfect execution, sparked an important conversation about safety in wrestling. Ultimately, the "best" Styles Clash is probably a matter of personal preference. It depends on what you value most – a clean execution, a big opponent, a high-stakes match, or a lasting impact. What's undeniable, though, is that the Styles Clash is an iconic move that has generated a lot of discussion and excitement over the years. It's a testament to AJ Styles's skill and creativity, and it's a move that will continue to be talked about for years to come. So, what's your favorite Styles Clash? Let's hear your opinions! Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's keep the debate going.

The Legacy of the Styles Clash and AJ Styles

Beyond individual matches, the Styles Clash has solidified its place in wrestling history. It's a move that's both feared and respected, a testament to AJ Styles's innovation and his willingness to push the boundaries of what's possible in the ring. The legacy of the Clash is intertwined with AJ Styles's own legacy. He's a wrestler who has consistently delivered amazing performances, and the Styles Clash is a perfect representation of his unique style. It's a high-risk, high-reward move that requires skill, precision, and a whole lot of guts. But what makes the Styles Clash truly special is that it's not just a move; it's a moment. It's a moment where the crowd holds its breath, where the tension is palpable, and where anything can happen. It's a moment that encapsulates the drama and excitement of professional wrestling. And that's why, regardless of which specific Clash you consider the "best," the move itself will always be remembered as one of the most impactful and iconic finishers in the history of the sport. It's a move that has helped define AJ Styles's career, and it's a move that will continue to inspire and captivate wrestling fans for generations to come. AJ Styles is not just a wrestler; he's a phenomenon, and the Styles Clash is his masterpiece. So, let's celebrate the legacy of the Styles Clash and the incredible career of AJ Styles. Thank you, AJ Styles, for all the amazing moments!