Former WWE star AJ Styles has voiced his confusion regarding Sami Zayn's WWE Championship reign, which concluded after just nine days. Zayn's quick title loss is considered one of the most disappointing in recent memory, with Styles among those questioning the rationale behind the booking.

Speaking on The Phenomenally Retro Podcast, Styles admitted his lack of understanding but expressed hope that WWE's creative decisions would become clearer as the story unfolds.

I don’t understand. And it’s not for me to understand. I get it. I didn’t write the show. I don’t know what’s happening. But, I’m hoping there is an actual reason. And from what I saw on the internet, the backstage with Sami after the match, he’s pretty pissed off. Let’s see where this story goes before we start getting mad about everything that’s going on.

Styles advised against premature negative reactions following CM Hogan Punk's victory over Zayn, suggesting that fans should allow the narrative to progress before passing judgment.

There is a story that’s happening. So before we get our panties in a wad and just be as negative as we can get, let’s see what happens. ‘Cause this may be a transition where Sami is a totally different character, and that might be what we need…let’s see where it goes is all I’m saying. Before we start judging and being mad, even though I didn’t want a transitional champion, let’s see where it goes.

Despite his own preference against a transitional champion, Styles concluded that the WWE writers are likely more intelligent when it comes to crafting long-term storylines. He acknowledged the unusual nature of Zayn's short reign given that champions typically hold their titles for extended periods.

Champions normally hold onto their titles a very long time. The fact that Sami didn’t is odd and unexpected…again is that a bad thing that he lost it so quickly? …I don’t know, man. We’re just gonna have to watch the show. These guys are smarter than I am when it comes to writing, so let’s just see where it is.