In the WrestleMania debut of LA Knight, he clinched a victory over AJ Styles during Night 2 of WrestleMania 40, marking a significant moment in his career. Despite facing a tough challenge and almost being counted out, Knight managed to rally back and secure the win with his signature move, the BFT.
The rivalry between Knight and Styles traces back to a previous encounter when Knight replaced Styles in a tag team match due to the latter’s injury caused by the Bloodline members. Knight emerged victorious in that match, sparking off the animosity between the two wrestlers.
This feud escalated further when Knight vied for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Roman Reigns. Although he didn’t clinch the title, Knight’s performance in the ring and his compelling promo battles with Reigns propelled him to greater fame within the WWE Universe.
YEAH!@RealLAKnight vanquished a foe in @AJStylesOrg at #WrestleMania XL!@SlimJim pic.twitter.com/so4NPD4sDb
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
He's FLIPPING OUT at #WrestleMania! pic.twitter.com/ZPWJugCh0T
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
NEW MUSIC for @AJStylesOrg at #WrestleMania XL! pic.twitter.com/HPoDvv0pde
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
Congratulations to the @SlimJim #WrestleMania sweepstakes winner! YEAH! pic.twitter.com/4kRX0Pi36G
— WWE (@WWE) April 8, 2024
Following Crown Jewel, where Knight narrowly missed out on the championship due to interference from The Bloodline, his pursuit for the title intensified. Meanwhile, Randy Orton and AJ Styles returned to the scene, with Styles unexpectedly targeting Knight, possibly out of resentment for Knight’s success in his absence.
The rivalry between Knight and Styles intensified, leading to a pivotal Fatal 4-Way match at the Royal Rumble for the title, ultimately retained by Reigns. Despite Styles’ attempts to sabotage Knight’s journey, Knight emerged victorious and earned a shot at challenging Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania.
Knight’s path to WrestleMania was filled with obstacles, including Styles’ interference in his qualification for the Elimination Chamber match. However, Knight overcame these challenges and secured his place in the WrestleMania lineup, where he achieved redemption by defeating Styles in a highly anticipated match, marking a significant milestone in his career.