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AJ Styles Announces Son Avery’s Summer Slam Appearances

2026-07-09 · AJ Styles · Player Focus

**AJ Styles** confirmed that his son, Avery Styles, will compete at two Game Changer Wrestling shows surrounding WWE’s Summer Slam weekend, with the first bout set for July 31 in Omaha and the second on August 1 in Minneapolis. The announcement follows Avery’s debut win at Squared Circle Action Wrestling’s Freedom Fling.

Avery Styles stepped into the ring for the first time on June 14 at the Freedom Fling event in Ohio. Backed by his father, he defeated Ashton Martin after a Styles Clash finisher. The match ended with a three‑count that marked Avery’s inaugural victory. A viral video of the young wrestler performing the Spiral Tap helped build buzz ahead of his debut.

Since hanging up his boots after a loss to Gunther at the Royal Rumble PLE in Riyadh earlier this year, AJ has fielded speculation about a comeback. In a recent interview with Adam Glyn, he admitted he would love to share a ring with his son, saying, “It would be awesome to wrestle my sons one time.” He stopped short of confirming a match, leaving the door ajar for a future father‑son showdown.

The two Game Changer Wrestling events-July 31 in Omaha and August 1 in Minneapolis-coincide with WWE’s biggest summer spectacle, Summer Slam. By placing Avery on cards that attract a national indie audience, AJ extends his influence beyond WWE’s platform. Avery entered the arena to the same entrance music his father used in New Japan Pro Wrestling, “Demigods,” reinforcing the family’s brand.

If Avery impresses at the Omaha and Minneapolis shows, a storyline pitting father against son could emerge. AJ’s earlier comment about a possible retirement‑capped match suggests a dream scenario for fans. Meanwhile, the younger Styles continues to train under his father’s guidance, aiming to carve his own path while honoring the legacy of a 25‑year career that spanned WCW, TNA, ROH, NJPW and WWE.

The wrestling community has already taken to social media, tagging the dates and venues. Many are eager to see whether Avery can hold his own against seasoned indie talent. Others hope the father‑son dynamic will culminate in a high‑profile bout, perhaps even on a WWE‑produced pay‑per‑view. Either way, the summer schedule now includes a compelling subplot for the Styles name.

**Key details:** Avery’s debut win-June 14, Freedom Fling; upcoming Game Changer shows-July 31 (Omaha) and August 1 (Minneapolis); AJ’s retirement match-Royal Rumble PLE, Riyadh, early 2026; AJ’s interview-with Adam Glyn, date not specified.

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