AEW Dynamite has delivered some of the most compelling promos in modern professional wrestling since its debut in 2019. As we celebrate the 5th anniversary of the show, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the memorable mic work that has defined key moments in the company’s history.
Promos are an essential aspect of wrestling, and AEW has had no shortage of powerful, emotional, and explosive moments that have helped elevate talent and shape storylines, despite some claims that All Elite is all about the in-ring action and nothing else.
Here’s a look back at the best AEW Dynamite promos that have stood the test of time.
MJF and CM Punk: “Will You Be My Valentine?” (February 2022)
The rivalry between MJF and CM Punk produced some of the best promos in wrestling, but the February 2022 episode of Dynamite featured a particularly unforgettable exchange.
In this promo, MJF, who is of course often known for his arrogance and brashness, showed a rare moment of vulnerability, recounting how Punk was his childhood hero, or at least it seemed that way.
Punk’s response, laden with tension, escalated the feud to new heights, culminating in the famous “Will you be my Valentine?” line. The promo was a masterclass in storytelling, blending sincerity with heelish cunning.
Jon Moxley and Eddie Kingston: “You Made a Promise to Your Mother” (November 2020)
Jon Moxley and Eddie Kingston’s feud in 2020 delivered intense, emotion-packed promos, but none hit harder than their exchange during a November 2020 episode of Dynamite.
Moxley, the AEW World Champion at the time, reminded Kingston of a promise he made to his mother that he would become champion. The deeply personal nature of this promo, coupled with the raw intensity of both men, elevated their rivalry to new heights.
Moxley’s ability to tap into Kingston’s insecurities made this one of the most emotionally charged promos in AEW history.
Cody Rhodes: “Undesirable to Undeniable” (November 2019)
Cody Rhodes has always been a master of storytelling, and his promo on the November 2019 episode of Dynamite, where he proclaimed that he had gone from “undesirable to undeniable,” was one of his finest moments.
This line was a reflection of Cody’s personal journey in the wrestling business, and it struck a chord with fans who had followed his career. His passion and sincerity were on full display, making it a defining promo in the early days of AEW.
MJF: “You F*cking Mark, Fire Me!” (June 2022)
MJF has made a name for himself as one of the best talkers in wrestling, and his now-legendary “You f*cking mark, fire me!” promo from June 2022 ranks among his finest. Coming off a series of real-life contract negotiations and controversies, MJF blurred the lines between fiction and reality during a live episode of Dynamite. His fiery tirade directed at AEW President Tony Khan captivated the crowd as MJF vented his frustrations, calling out the company’s management in what was designed to look like an unscripted, off-the-cuff manner.
The promo sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, with fans and pundits alike debating whether the promo was real or part of a storyline. MJF’s passion and venom in his delivery made the moment unforgettable.