AJ Styles Defends Road Dogg's Appointment As WWE SmackDown Co-Lead Writer

Things have been shaken up backstage on WWE SmackDown, with Brian James (AKA Road Dogg) being named the new Co-Lead Writer, alongside fellow Co-Lead John Swikata.

The appointment of James has drawn a negative reaction from some on social media, resulting in none other than AJ Styles rushing to his defence.

Taking to X, The Phenomenal One suggested that the WWE Hall of Famer's prior spell as a writer on the blue brand was hindered by someone else, writing:

"Before judging this guy from his past performance as the head writer. Just know that there was a man who picked it apart to the point that it was no longer his ideas anymore".

James previously worked on the SmackDown writing team, starting in 2016, and was eventually promoted to Lead Writer. However, he ended up resigning from his post following WrestleMania 35 in 2019. After that, he fulfilled various roles as a 'utility player' of sorts, before being released in January 2022, only to be brought back that August.

As far as AJ Styles is concerned, James has previously spoken about the 'serious arguments' he would have with Vince McMahon regarding the former TNA World Champion.

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