WWE RAW on February 23, 2026, promised a tribute to AJ Styles in his home state of Georgia — and it delivered a crossover moment few expected.
Following Je’Von Evans’ win over Kofi Kingston, the show shifted gears with a video package celebrating Styles’ career. Several stars heaped praise on “The Phenomenal One,” but one appearance stood out above the rest. In a rare on-screen moment, Chris “Abyss” Parks appeared as part of the tribute.
Then things got even more surreal.
Backstage, Frankie Kazarian was shown walking through the arena before opening a door to reveal Abyss — in full gimmick — standing inside.
For longtime TNA fans, it was a flashback that hit harder than a Styles Clash.
Abyss Joins AJ Styles Tribute in Historic WWE Crossover
Abyss and Styles share one of the most defining rivalries in TNA history. Their “David vs. Goliath” dynamic produced several memorable battles. Most notably, their brutal Six Sides of Steel match at Lockdown 2005 has garnered acclaim.
That bout featured thumbtacks, chains, and a Sunset Flip Powerbomb from the top of the cage — a match Abyss has previously called the favorite of his career.
The tribute show came weeks after Styles’ in-ring retirement at Royal Rumble 2026, where Gunther defeated him in a career-threatening match. RAW’s celebration served as a thank-you to Styles with appearances from former allies like Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows.
Though Abyss now works backstage as a WWE producer, his presence — especially in character added a layer of history to the night. Styles has previously shared that Parks was the first person he embraced backstage after his final match.
For one night, the forbidden door felt less forbidden. And for fans who followed their rivalry from steel cages to world title matches, seeing Abyss honor Styles on WWE RAW was nothing short of phenomenal.
READ MORE: Brock Lesnar Officially Issues Challenge for WWE WrestleMania 42
