Tony Khan happened to share quite a Swerve Strickland story with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
Speaking with Scott Fishman of TV Insider, the AEW President talked about introducing his AEW World Heavyweight Champion to Goodell and talked about that gruesome moment he fought Hangman Page and took a staple to the face.
“I was telling Goodell about Swerve versus Hangman Page. I mentioned to him how Swerve got stapled in the face. Roger looked at him and said, ‘Really? He got stapled in the face for real?’ Swerve was smiling and said, ‘Yeah it’s true.'”
After Goodell left, Khan noted to Swerve that he happened to omit the fact that Strickland drank Page’s blood. According to Tony, Swerve got a kick out of that.
Tony Khan Happy With AEW & NFL Draft Buzz
Albeit polarizing, Tony Khan was very pleased with the connection and promotion he got from wearing a neckbrace during the NFL Draft, following the Meltzer Driver he took from last week’s AEW Dynamite. Khan made a point to credit NFL personality Rich Eisen for all the publicity for AEW during the weekend.
“Making lemonade out of lemons, I brought my recovery to the NFL Draft this year. I was blessed that Rich Eisen gave it so much coverage on the broadcast several times. He is doing great things with St. Jude through Run Rich Run. It’s such an awesome cause.”
In an effort to get AEW over as the underdog, Khan made a controversial analogy with his company in comparison to WWE, noting that WWE was Harvey Weinstein while AEW was Pepsi.
R Truth feels very happy seeing the rise of black talent in wrestling and it makes him emotional to know that all of them have huge respect and admiration for the wrestling veteran.
One half of the current world tag team champions recently had an interview with the Battleground podcast. He discussed things such as winning the World Tag Team Championship with The Miz at WrestleMania 40 and more.
During the interview, they played a clip of the new AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland discussing Truth’s status as a legend of the industry. The WWE star returned the favor saying that what we have seen is only the beginning for Swerve:
“Man, I get emotional. It’s such a prestige [and] honor to have. Let me say this, I want to congratulate Swerve. Definitely gotta congratulate him man on his achievement, his accomplishment. I meant to call you. I’m sorry I haven’t called you yet. I’mma text you. He’s been killing it for a while. He’s so talented, man, so humble, so well-deserving of what he’s doing now. You’re just seeing the beginning of him.”
It’s A Surreal Moment For Me: R Truth
Just like Swerve in AEW, a number of young black talents have made their mark on WWE TV in recent times. Carmelo Hayes has only recently concluded his successful NXT run after being called up during the 2024 Drafts. Current NXT Champion Trick Williams and NXT North American Champion Oba Femi are some other names that are gaining new followers every day.
Speaking about all these talents breaking through the barriers to earn their rightful place in the industry, R Truth said that it’s a surreal moment for him:
“Trick, Obie, Carmelo, these guys are just like — it’s such a good time to be a part of this. It’s such a good time to see these guys give me my flowers. Strickland have always talked good about me, man. Again, it’s a surreal moment for me to be in the position I’m in.”
Of course, Truth himself has been a pioneer in the industry for almost 3 decades now. Apart from having a Hall of Fame worthy career in WWE, Truth has made history by becoming the first-ever African American NWA World Heavyweight Champion back in 2002.
His successful music career speaks for the diversity of talents possessed by the current champion. It’s only a testament to his skills that even at 52 years of age, Truth continues to perform at the highest level in the industry and can go toe to with any current or upcoming talents.
Fans got to see Swerve Strickland in action on AEW Dynamite, but we didn’t happen to hear any words from the new World Heavyweight Champion. That will change this Saturday on Collision.
Following Wednesday’s episode, AEW announced that Strickland will be interviewed on Saturday, getting his first thoughts after becoming the champion.
“The NEW #AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland kicks off #AEW Collision with his FIRST Live Interview since #AEWDynasty, THIS Saturday, IMMEDIATELY following NBA coverage on TNT!”
The NEW #AEW World Champion @swerveconfident kicks off #AEW Collision with his FIRST Live Interview since #AEWDynasty, THIS Saturday, IMMEDIATELY following @nba coverage on TNT!
While we didn’t hear Strickland talk on Dynamite, we did hear from a different World Champion utter some words. IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Jon Moxley delivered a promo before his main event fight against Powerhouse Hobbs. Moxley ended up defeating Hobbs via technical submission. Hobbs passed out in a rear-naked choke hold and the finish ended up being a segue-way for the polarizing closing segment between Tony Khan and Jack Perry.
A big reason for Swerve not speaking is because Saturday AEW will have it’s biggest lead-in with the NBA Playoffs as there will be no Inside The NBA post-game show.
Reminder: there is no Inside the NBA following playoff coverage on TNT this Saturday!
We go right from the end of Celtics vs Heat into the start of #AEWCollision on TNT live coast-to-coast across America with @swerveconfident's first live interview since his #AEWDynasty World…
As far as Swerve is concerned, his match led off the show. While his newly won World Title wasn’t on the line, he did compete in an Eliminator Match with the challenger being Kyle Fletcher. Strickland and Fletcher went back and forth, but Swerve ended up getting the emphatic win with a running flip kick to the back of the head.
While Swerve will react to his Dynasty win on Saturday, next week it’s being advertised that his opponent for AEW Double Or Nothing will be revealed. We’ve already got two title matches for the PPV. Willow Nightingale will defend her TBS Championship against Mercedes Mone and Will Ospreay will face Roderick Strong for the International Championship.
Swerve Strickland is not only an AEW first, but he also joins an “elite” club that includes Chris Jericho.
During AEW Dynasty on Sunday, Strickland defeated Samoa Joe for the AEW World Championship, making him the first African-American World Champion in the company’s history and it certainly marked for a celebatory occassion.
Footage was taken of Swerve having dinner with his AEW co-horts following his historic win and Chris Jericho took some time to honor Strickland, noting that he saw Swerve’s star power right off the bat of entering AEW. Not only that, but Jericho made note of the creative efforts that Swerve makes in and out of the wrestling ring. He then made clear that Strickland is the right man to currently hold the gold, something that only eight people have done since the inception of All Elite Wrestling.
“We don’t change the titles to the World Title very often unless it’s the absolue right guy. He is the right guy for the job, he’s got the cool X-factor and if I was the big wig in AEW (like I am), I would put you on every other fucking talk show, I’d promote you in every single way because you have what we need which is the ability to cross over in the mainstream and I’m super proud of you, man. I knew you had it since day one.”
Jericho happened to be the first-ever AEW World Champion and is in the thick of a feud with HOOK after defeating Taz’s son for the FTW Championship at Dynasty.
Swerve Strickland isn’t getting much of a breather after winning the AEW World Championship as the new champ will be in action this Wednesday.
Tuesday evening AEW President Tony Khan announced that Strickland will be going up against Kyle Fletcher in an AEW World Title Eliminator match on this week’s Dynamite.
“Will AEW’s home venue be Swerve’s House when ROH World TV Champion Kyle Fletcher challenges the NEW AEW World Champion in an Eliminator TOMORROW?”
Will AEW's home venue be Swerve's House when ROH World TV Champion Kyle Fletcher challenges the NEW AEW World Champion in an Eliminator TOMORROW? pic.twitter.com/icaS6awFUs
Fletcher is the current ROH TV Champion and the big youngster will have a shot to showcase his skills in yet another high-profile match. Previously, Fletcher faced fellow Don Callis Family member Will Ospreay all the way back at the beginning of March. Ospreay came out on top in that bout, but Fletcher has been building quite a match resume as a member of the AEW roster.
AEW is fresh off its Dynasty PPV this past Sunday where it was Swerve Strickland taking on Samoa Joe for that very World Title Fletcher hopes to challenge for. The fight between Joe and Strickland was intense as it had to take Swerve two top rope double stomps to secure the 1-2-3 against Joe.
What Else Is On Tap For 4/24 AEW Dynamite
Tony Khan is looking to get an audience with the fallout from Dynasty as the headline match will have Jon Moxley putting his freshly won IWGP World Title on the line against Don Callis Family member Powerhouse Hobbs.
Also on tap is an advertised segment between The Best Friends and Anna Jay will face Mina Shirakawa.
Swerve Strickland became the eighth man and first African American man to hold the AEW World Championship at Sunday’s AEW Dynasty pay-per-view. Mark Henry discussed the significance of the win the following morning on Busted Open Radio. He says AEW believes in Swerve and even though ‘representation matters,’ his success was earned and he’s got the talent to be in this new position.
As a multi-time World Champion himself, Henry speaks from experience. He knows firsthand what the win says about the company’s faith in Strickland the responsibilities that come with being the new face of a major wrestling promotion.
“To be a World Champion in pro wrestling and have a company backing you and believe you enough that you’re going to get the job done is big. I mean, you are the guy that’s carrying the torch, and just like the light was on Moxley and the light was on Danielson and the light was on Joe, now the light is going to be shined on Swerve.”
— SiriusXM Busted Open (@BustedOpenRadio) April 22, 2024
Earned on Merit
The ‘World’s Strongest Man’ said AEW is confident Strickland he can carry the company like Kenny Omega, Hangman Page and MJF did before him. While it’s important for young fans to see people who share their culture achieving success in the ring, Swerve’s success has been earned through his talents and hard work.
“They didn’t pass up on an opportunity to do the right thing. It’s earned. It wasn’t because he was an African American. It was because he was talented and I feel like that’s a beautiful thing and representation matters and it means everything.”
Representation in Wrestling
Here are some more recent articles about wrestlers talking about the topics of representation and diversity in entertainment:
Swerve Strickland arrived to AEW Dynasty in style with an epic entrance that paid tribute to one of the most important names associated with Ring of Honor.
At Dynasty, Strickland dethroned Samoa Joe to win the AEW World Championship in an emotional main event. The win cemented Strickland as the eighth man to win the gold and the first black wrestler to capture the richest prize in AEW.
Strickland was dressed to impress in St. Louis and wore a black and gold attire for his entrance. Fans quickly recognized the look as inspired by Kilmonger, the antagonist of 2018’s Black Panther film from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Swerve Strickland and Kilmonger.
Swerve Strickland’s ROH Tribute
Kilmonger wasn’t the only notable name referenced during Swerve Strickland’s entrance at AEW Dynasty. Prince Nana was on hand to cover Strickland in a robe, which Excalibur noted belonged to Jimmy Rave.
What an entrance by the challenger Swerve Strickland
Rave was part of Ring of Honor during the company’s early days and was part of The Embassy, a stable led by Nana. Rave’s heel work was so strong, that instead of throwing streamers for his entrance as was customary, fans threw toilet paper as he made his way to the ring. The ultimately led to toilet paper being banned from ROH show after Rave tried to attack a fan who threw a roll at him after his match.
Rave would make returns to ROH in 2009, 2011, and 2013. In November 2020, he announced his retirement after an infection in his left arm required amputation. An MRSA infection would cost Rave both of his legs less than a year later and he would die on December 12, 2021, at the age of 39.
The wrestling world has shared their support for Swerve Strickland following his AEW World Championship victory at AEW Dynasty.
Strickland dethroned Samoa Joe in the main event of the show to become the eighth man to have won the gold. The win also made Strickland the first black man to hold the AEW World Championship.
Wrestling World Reacts to Swerve Strickland’s Win
Strickland’s victory has understandably had the wrestling world abuzz. On Twitter, Matt Hardy gave his congrats to Strickland and others who made an impression at AEW Dynasty.
AEW’s Administration Co-Ordinator shared a photo with Strickland, Prince Nana, AEW COO Kosha Irby, and new AEW TBS Champion Willow Nightingale to celebrate the historic show.
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) April 22, 2024
Strickland’s win clearly means a lot to a lot of people and for good reason. After the setback of his 2021 release from WWE, Strickland has pulled himself up to become one of the hottest acts in professional wrestling. As for how his reign goes remains to be seen but AEW is indeed Swerve’s house after the Dynasty pay-per-view.
Swerve Strickland’s historic AEW World Championship at AEW Dynasty may never have come about had KofiMania not taken wrestling by storm in 2019.
At AEW’s most recent pay-per-view, Strickland won the AEW World Championship from Samoa Joe and became the first black AEW World Champion in the process. On the post-show media scrum, Strickland spoke about how Kofi Kingston’s journey to the WWE Championship inspired him to think big.
“Friends of mine, seeing friends like Kofi [Kingston]. The last five years was probably one of the biggest inspirational things you’ve ever seen. Not just in black history but in wrestling history period. And that’s motivating. That’s inspiring. And that makes me like ‘I want to do that for the next generation.'”
Strickland added that he has big plans now that he is the champion and was pleased that it didn’t take long for another black champion to emerge following Kofi’s victory in MetLife Stadium.
“I don’t want to just do it once. I want to do it multiple times. And the fact that I was able to somewhat recreate a feeling like that in just a small amount of time, not like 20 years later, 15, 30, years later. That’s progress in my mind. And it’s not just me, it’s a team. Nana’s a part of that. My people, my family. All of them right here. None of this happens without any of these guys together.
Strickland’s win is understandably huge for him and could mark the ushering of a new era, one that sees AEW leave the issues of the past behind. Whatever comes next, Swerve has done the work to elevate himself into the main event, and the future bodes well with him as AEW World Champion.
AEW Dynasty was a historic event for the company. Not only did they debut a new pay-per-view in Saint Louis, but the company ended the night with a new AEW World Champion.
Swerve Strickland’s road to the top of AEW reached its peak at AEW Dynasty. The Mogul Embassy leader proved that the Chaifetz Arena in St Louis is Swerve’s House, as he defeated Samoa Joe for the AEW Title.
After the main event match was over, Joe swiftly headed backstage while streamers fell on Strickland, who celebrated his win with Prince Nana and ringside fans while pyrotechnics went off while the new champion celebrated.
HE DID IT! Swerve Strickland is the NEW #AEW World Champion!
At the AEW Dynasty pay-per-view event at the Chaifetz Arena in St Louis, MO, AEW World Heavyweight Champion Samoa Joe faced Swerve Strickland with the title on the line.
Strickland aggressively started the match, attempting an outside dive that Joe countered with a powerslam onto the announce table. After Strickland ripped up the protective padding, he executed an outside dive, but Joe responded with a powerslam on the exposed concrete.
As the match continued, Joe attempted to leave with his title, but Strickland stopped him. Then Swerve delivered a 450 splash and a double foot stomp for a two count.
Joe then applied a rear-naked choke, which Strickland escaped. Strickland nearly won again with a House Call and another two-count, followed by a powerbomb from the middle rope and a double foot stomp that finally clinched his victory.
All Elite Wrestling returns on pay-per-view for their first Dynasty event tonight. The event will occur at the Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis, Missouri. AEW has been building towards the card for weeks, and the PPV is set to have 12 matches.
In the main event, AEW World Champion Samoa Joe will defend his title against Swerve Strickland. The challenger earned an opportunity after defeating Konosuke Takeshita to become the number one contender on the March 27 episode of AEW Dynamite. Strickland enters the matchup motivated to dethrone Joe and become the first black AEW World Champion. However, he won’t have an easy task, as Joe has yet to lose in over six months.
Elsewhere on the card, Will Ospreay will face Bryan Danielson in a highly anticipated match. Since officially joining the roster at AEW Revolution last month, Ospreay has quickly become a threat in the men’s division. He has won five matchups in the company to join the conversation of being a potential AEW world title contender. That said, Danielson stands in his way and will try to humble the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.
Start Time & How To Watch
AEW Dynasty will kick off their event with a pre-show at 6:30 PM ET/3:30 PM PT. The pre-show will have three matches and be streamed live on AEW’s YouTube channel for free.
After the pre-show, the event will move toward pay-per-view at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT. AEW fans must pay $49.99 to watch on Bleacher Report, AEW’s YouTube channel, or Triller TV. The PPV portion will consist of nine matches, including the AEW World Championship main event.
AEW Dynasty
AEW Dynasty Full Match Card
(Match Card Is Subject To Change)
Pre-Show Card:
Matt Sydal vs. Trent Beretta
Katsuyori Shibata & Orange Cassidy vs. Shane Taylor Promotions (Lee Moriarty & Shane Taylor)
(C) Billy Gunn & The Acclaimed (Anthony Bowens & Max Caster) vs. (C) Bullet Club Gold (Austin Gunn, Colten Gunn & Jay White)-AEW World Trios / ROH World Six Man Tag Team Championship Match
PPV Card:
(C) Hook vs. Chris Jericho-FTW Championship Match
(C) Roderick Strong vs. Kyle O’Reilly-AEW International Championship Match
(C) Kazuchika Okada vs. PAC-AEW Continental Championship Match
(C) Toni Storm with Luther & Mariah May vs. Thunder Rosa-AEW Women’s World Championship Match
Adam Copeland, Eddie Kingston & Mark Briscoe vs. House Of Black (Brody King, Buddy Matthews & Malakai Black)-Six Man Tag Team Match
The Young Bucks (Matthew Jackson & Nicholas Jackson) vs. FTR (Cash Wheeler & Dax Harwood)-Vacant AEW World Tag Team Championship Tournament Final Ladder Match
(C) Julia Hart vs. Willow Nightingale with Stokely Hathaway-AEW TBS Championship House Rules Match
Bryan Danielson vs. Will Ospreay
(C) Samoa Joe vs. Swerve Strickland with Prince Nana-AEW World Championship Match
Swerve Strickland sees unlimited value in Drew McIntyre and would like to see the Scotsman make his way to AEW.
Speaking on “Bootleg Kev” Strickland was asked by one of the hosts if he had to chose a WWE talent to jump ship to AEW, who would he pick. Swerve laid out a big case as to why Drew McIntyre would equal major value for All Elite Wrestling.
“Man, I would love to see a Drew McIntyre over here, you know? Contract status, I don’t know. I can’t speak on it, but I’ve heard it’s not fully [finalized].
“I think Drew McIntyre could work anywhere in the world like he’s proven that before like that’s why WWE wanted him back so badly … the transformation he made he can just work anywhere and do anything with anybody. I think he’d be a major fit in AEW.”
Regarding his own WWE tenure, Swerve made clear that it wasn’t that he was not properly utilized, but just not used to his fullest potential. He said that it could have taken a year to several for that to possibly happening, noting that it took The Usos and Roman Reigns to finally get where they are today.
What Is The Contract Status Of Drew McIntyre?
As of now, Drew McIntyre is not under a new deal with WWE despite the fact that he’s going to be in one of the main event matches at WrestleMania 40 against Seth Rollins. Drew did say that he’s just having fun right now, but a new contract is very important to him. He also added that you’ll see him continue to wrestle for a very long time, whether that be as Drew McIntyre or Drew Galloway, noting “that would get everyone’s attention.”
Please credit “Bootleg Kev” and h/t to SEScoops for the transcription.
AEW wrestler Swerve Strickland has praise for Mercedes Mone, as he recently talked about her debut in AEW.
Strickland talked to Bootleg Kev at the Rolling Loud music festival, where he talked about a number of topics such as bloody matches in wrestling, CM Punk’s tenure in AEW, and Mercedes Mone making her way to the Jacksonville, Florida-based wrestling company.
Strickland was asked about the “big contract” of Mone, as she is reportedly making bank at the company, which is said to be sufficient enough to establish her as the highest-paid woman in wrestling.
“We’re building a dynasty now in AEW,” Strickland said. “For what she can do for women’s wrestling, not just for AEW, but across the industry period, it’s pivotal. She’s a matriarch for that. I’ve never seen a women’s free agent make that kind of noise, ever. She’s top billing. She’s worth it. Hopefully that challenges other industries to boost the revenue for other female wrestlers.”
Big Business
Mone was in talks with WWE before joining AEW, and hit a financial roadblock with the company when talks were ongoing. Mone reportedly didn’t want to be paid more than her peers in the women’s roster, but she did want her financial compensation to be equivalent of the top stars. While that didn’t work out for her and WWE, AEW was down with it.
Mercedes Mone’s massive contract sets a positive precedence in the professional wrestling industry, as it increases the value of female wrestlers and how much they can be paid. It’s also a testament to the fact that maintaining a social media following and connecting with fans is really important as a wrestler.
Mone’s debut at Big Business was certainly massive, and it remains to be seen what’s in store for her next In AEW. For more, you can read about the drama between Britt Baker and Mone, and what Adam Copeland has to say about him and Mone’s work in the AEW as WWE alumni.
AEW is Swerve’s House, but that title also goes to any venue that currently holds his greatness. The top performer for Tony Khan’s company is versatile, and he is about to flex on a totally different stage.
Swerve Strickland is booked for the 2024 Rolling Loud music festival in Los Angeles. The Dates of the show are March 14 through 17, and Swerve is going to be doing his thing on one of the stages.
2024 Rolling Loud Los Angeles is Swerve’s House
Swerve Strickland is set to showcase his talents beyond the squared circle at the upcoming Rolling Loud music festival in Los Angeles. Scheduled to perform alongside DJ Five Venoms and Friends from March 14-17, 2024, Swerve will bring his unique flair to the Rolling Loud LA music festival.
Despite his musical endeavors, Swerve Strickland remains focused on his wrestling career, particularly his pursuit of the AEW World Heavyweight Championship. He hasn’t stopped the musical grind, as he still releases music.
Only time will tell if Prince Nana will join Swerve at Rolling Loud, but we can only hope that he will be there. After all, Nana and Swerve have become a regular highlight of AEW television.
Following his loss at AEW Revolution, where Hangman Adam Page submitted to Samoa Joe, Strickland reignited his feud with Samoa Joe. So, he’s not done with the AEW Title chase yet.
Samoa Joe, who is now fresh off a successful title defense against Wardlow at AEW Big Business on March 13, was confronted by Swerve Strickland. This set the stage for a potential showdown between the two down the line. It may have to wait until Rolling Loud is over with at this point.
SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more. Please keep checking back for more updates on the stories you need.
AEW has featured a few big angles to hype fans for pay-per-view confrontations. Adam “Hangman” Page and Swerve Strickland’s war may be over for now, but there were plenty of reasons to do battle.
Strickland recently opened up about the meaning behind breaking into Hangman Page’s house during his feud going into Full Gear, where the two tore each other apart in a Texas Death Match.
Swerve Speaks on Hangman’s House
Swerve Strickland reflected on his ongoing feud with ‘Hangman’ Adam Page. Over the past few months, Strickland and Page have been embroiled in a heated rivalry that has captivated the wrestling world.
In an interview with Fightful, Strickland discussed various aspects of his feud with Page, including its origins and development. He explained, “I honestly didn’t know where we were going to start, what was the baseline. Will Washington came up with the idea of, ‘Hey, we don’t know where you’re going following Wembley, but I have an idea of what I want to do with Swerve. I think you two right now, we need to get Hangman back in them singles—’ ‘Cause he was doing trios.” Strickland described Page as the main character of AEW and expressed his intention to challenge and disrupt Page’s purity.
Regarding his approach to the feud, Strickland likened it to adding iodine to pure water, gradually altering the character dynamics and storyline themes. He emphasized the importance of these elements in defining characters and shaping the narrative tone. Strickland also touched on the symbolism behind his entrance music, which he described as luring fans into a false sense of security before revealing darker undertones.
In particular, Strickland highlighted a symbolic reference to “Hangman’s house” in his actions, indicating a deliberate intrusion into Page’s personal and psychological space. Reflecting on his recent actions, Strickland acknowledged a period of introspection and contemplation about the consequences of his character’s evil deeds.
“It’s like a candy coated painting of things. Hangman is the elements of ‘I’m dragging you down to hell, we’ll see who comes out at the end of it.’ It seems like we both came out, but somebody came out differently. So I came out of it, ‘Oh, man. I think this evil, this resentment I’m holding inside of me is holding me back from achieving my goals.’ ‘Cause if you noticed, when I started doing that, the International title? I had it, lost it. The Continental Classic? I had it, I lost it. The TNT title opportunity. I had it and I lost it. The AEW World Title? I had it and I lost it. I was like, ‘Is this evil worth it?’ So now I’m kind of understanding, which goes back to the promo I cut this past week on TV. Am I supposed to play this role of the guy that gets close enough, but can’t get it done? Or maybe this is karma from all the bad I was doing. Maybe it’s what got me to there, but something more is gonna have to get me over the hump.”
Swerve & the AEW World Title
With two singles victories already under his belt, Strickland faced Page for the third time on the February 7 edition of Dynamite, resulting in a draw. Additionally, the duo, along with Samoa Joe, competed in a three-way match for the AEW World Championship at Revolution, which Joe emerged as World Champion once again.
We will have to see what Swerve Strickland is able to do in AEW. It stands to reason that he may be a future World Champion. If anything, you know that Tony Khan is booking him in a position where he has a ton of trust and attention.
SEScoops will have more on Swerve Strickland’s journey in AEW, and whatever happens next. Keep checking back for more updates and headlines that you need!
MJF hasn’t been seen on AEW television in a while. As fans wait for his return to television, it seems that some fans who were expecting to see him in Lexington, Kentucky were a bit bummed out by having the former AEW World Champion pull out of an appearance.
It seems that MJF pulled out of a major fan event for the Lexington Toy & Comic Con recently. AEW was able to come up with a substitution with Swerve Strickland.
MJF’s Missed Event
Sean Ross Sapp noted on Fightful Select that MJF opted out of another comic con appearance this week, marking a notable absence from the event lineup. In response, Swerve Strickland stepped in to fill the vacancy at the upcoming Lexington Toy & Comic Con in Lexington this weekend.
It was not noted if MJF gave any reason for him pulling out of the event. Fans will get a chance to meet Swerve instead, so it’s a good trade. Still, some fans were probably a bit upset that The Salt of the Earth pulled out.
MJF’s Last Match
On December 30, 2023, at All Elite Wrestling’s AEW Worlds End pay-per-view event held at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York, USA, MJF faced off against Samoa Joe in a high-stakes battle for the AEW World Title. In a match lasting 17 minutes and 52 seconds, Samoa Joe emerged victorious, clinching the championship title.
Adam Cole also revealed himself as The Devil, and that put a huge nail in the coffin for his partnership with the former NXT Champion.
This outcome marked a significant shift in the AEW landscape, with MJF conceding the title to Samoa Joe in a memorable showdown. That was also MJF’s last match to date. Only time will tell when he will re-emerge.
SEScoops will have more information on MJF’s status if new details are made available. Keep checking back for more on the stories that you need from the pro wrestling world.
Swerve Strickland may have found a home for himself in AEW, but the popular star remains in touch with one of WWE’s most notable on-screen personalities.
Strickland joined WWE in 2019 and the former NXT North American Champion was released in late 2021. He would later join AEW at Revolution 2022 in March. On the latest edition of his Swerve City podcast, Strickland spoke about his journey in wrestling and revealed that he still converses with Paul Heyman.
“Little do people know, I still talk to Paul Heyman. Just on a mentorship-type state. I go to him for advice on like my promos and my segments that like … when I was doing the home invasion segments and all this stuff, I was like ‘how did this make you feel?’ I would get reception back from him.”
Paul Heyman on AEW
Heyman has unsurprisingly never appeared for AEW, but the special counsel to Roman Reigns does keep an eye on the competition. Speaking to BT Sport ahead of Survivor Series 2021, Heyman was asked for his take on Tony Khan’s company.
“Oh, they’re viable. They are a viable entity, and God bless them for being there.”
What’s Next?
This weekend, Swerve Strickland will compete in the main event of AEW Revolution 2024. Strickland will challenge AEW World Champion Samoa Joe in a triple threat match that will also feature ‘Hangman’ Adam Page. With that said, the Cowboy may not be in the match despite his recent ‘injury’ on Dynamite being confirmed to be a work. This match will mark Strickland’s first AEW pay-per-view main event.
Swerve Strickland showed his appreciation to some of the exceptional black wrestlers who helped shape his career on this week’s episode of AEW Collision.
February is Black History Month, in which the accomplishments of black individuals are recognised, as they have often been overlooked in the past. AEW features some excellent black wrestlers on its roster, including Jay Lethal, The Acclaimed, Marq Quen, Keith Lee, and Lee Moriarty, to name just a few.
Swerve Strickland on Black History Month
On this week’s episode of AEW Collision, Strickland addressed Black History Month during an in-ring interview with Tony Schiavone. Strickland referred to some of the black wrestlers who have inspired him and didn’t let his credit be reserved to just one promotion.
“Black History [Month], the celebration of the achievement of black people in all industries. All avenues, all walks of life, right? Yeah, I’m noble enough to really show appreciation and recognize all the people who paved the way for me to have the opportunity to stand [in this ring] right here, right now and talk to you [Tony Schiavone.]
“People you may know, such as a Ron Simmons. How about I shout out my friends who made Black history, you know, like a Kofi Kingston? What up Kof! And how about we keep it in house a little bit? We talk about some of the people that’s been one of the best wrestlers on the planet? Holding down a brand, for well over a year now, whoopin’ ass! I’m talking about the Ring of Honor Women’s [World] Champion Athena. What up sis?”
All Elite Wrestling superstar Keith Lee’s year is off to a rocky start. He suffered a setback last month when he had to pull out of a match against Swerve Strickland at AEW World’s End due to an injury. While fans have been hopeful he would return to action soon, he won’t be able to compete for a while.
In a statement written to Nick Hausman, Lee shared that he is set to undergo two double surgeries. AEW star seems to admit that he didn’t need surgery for 19 years of his career, but unfortunately, it was his time.
Hausman transcribed the following quotes he received from Lee.
“Took roughly 19 years…. but I guess it’s my turn,” wrote Lee. He continued, “Time to get fixed. Here’s to double surgeries. Certainly, one way to start 2024.”
It’s unclear what the specific injury Lee has to get fixed or how long he is expected to be out of action. The update from the AEW superstar is unfortunate, as it seemed like he was recently building momentum in the company.
Lee started gaining traction by winning a mixed eight-person tag team match at AEW WrestleDream on October 1, 2023. He continued to be featured for both AEW and Ring Of Honor, including competing in a loss against Samoa Joe for the ROH World Television Championship. In his last three matches, he won three consecutive matches, and AEW was ready to feature his long-awaited rematch with Strickland.
At this time, it’s unclear if the company plans to continue with the program when he eventually returns.
Could AEW Continue the Feud Between Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland
Although the feud between Lee and Strickland is unresolved, Strickland has moved on to another big storyline. He is in the mix to compete for the AEW World Championship and is involved in a feud with “Hangman” Adam Page.
On the January 10 episode of AEW Dynamite, Strickland shared his intentions to challenge for the world title before Page interrupted him. AEW may have another match planned between Page and Strickland as they look to end their rivalry. While it’s unclear if Strickland will get another win and move on to challenge for the championship, AEW seems to have plans for him.
Lee’s primary focus for the foreseeable future will be to recover from injuries. If he can return fully healthy, he can build momentum again, and the company can restart his feud with Strickland.
Although the timing of the injuries is unlucky, AEW fans will support Lee and look forward to him returning to the ring at 100 percent.
Hit Row made their return to WWE after Triple H took control of power. Vince McMahon fired the entire stable previously, and Swerve Strickland went to AEW before Triple H could do anything about it. Now, Hit Row is no more after Top Dolla’s release, but he doesn’t believe there were any plans to begin with.
Hit Row’s Second Run In WWE
Top Dolla was released from WWE in September, and now he is a free agent as AJ Francis once again. As rumors of a TNA in-ring debut are strong, due to his planned music video debut at Hard to Kill, he has vivid memories of his time in WWE.
While speaking to Busted Open Radio, the former Top Dolla opened up about his time in WWE. He feels as though the company never had a plan for Hit Row.
“I feel like they didn’t have an idea how to use Hit Row. I feel like the idea of the hip-hop stable just didn’t really gell with what they had creatively and what they wanted to do creatively. They had different plans for the three of us. I’m just happy that Briana and Tehuti, which are B-Fab and Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis are still there. I’m happy they’re still getting money. I’m happy that they seem to be getting involved on the show. I have no ill will towards anyone there. It’s just now I got to worry about me. I don’t care about anybody else but me. That’s why I don’t want to be in no factions. I don’t want to be in no groups or tag teams. I’m tired of people pretending that I need other people. I can do it by myself and I’m going to do it by myself.”
AJ Francis Got A Weird Feeling
AJ Francis went on to say that, during his second run in WWE, he noticed a significant difference in his relationship with Triple H, characterized by mutual respect.
He acknowledged Paul Heyman as a strong supporter of his as well, but that might have been the extent of it. There were instances when he felt unwelcome, perceiving it through the energy and body language in the Gorilla Position during matches.
I don’t know how to say it other than like, sometimes I just never felt welcome. Like when other talent would be in Gorilla, like, I would go in Gorilla and watch people’s matches, and I would watch the dark matches, and I would watch during the show, and I just didn’t feel like I was supposed to be there. I just felt like the energy around was like, I shouldn’t be in there. I don’t know why I felt that way.
Despite no explicit objections, the atmosphere left AJ Francis with a sense of not belonging. Every Friday on SmackDown, AJ would show up, sometimes alone, running spots in the ring, often with a ghost partner. Collaborating with William Regal and others, he also said he gave his all in dark matches, aiming to engage the crowd and cut promos, but the consistent dislike from the audience towards Hit Row suggested a lack of plans for the group.
Things took a big turn for Hit Row, especially after LA Knight verbally dismantled the faction. It wasn’t long until they were never seen on television as a faction again.
Hit Row Members Left In WWE
In the end, Francis was released, while B-Fab and Ashante Thee Adonis were left on the blue brand. B-Fab was featured speaking with Bobby Lashley as he created his new stable, but nothing ever came from that.
Adonis was recently spotted in a backstage segment with Nick Aldis, where he was asking for an opportunity. We will have to see if there are finally some plans for them in WWE.
The star power of Swerve Strickland is only continuing to grow with the AEW wrestler landing a role in an upcoming slasher movie.
Strickland will star in ‘Stiletto‘, a new film from Samuel Gonzalez Jr. which will see Gigi Gustin (Night of the Missing) star and produce. Other names attached to the film include Charlotte McKinney (Fantasy Island), Colleen Camp (Amsterdam, American Hustle), Pancho Moler (3 from Hell), Tyler Abron (Fear), and Stephen Blackehart (Guardians of the Galaxy)
A plot summary for the film reads as follows:
“A year after the grisly murder of a local exotic dancer, the victim’s sister, Lyric [Gustin], searches for the serial killer responsible as he stalks and kills his favorite dancers on the night of the anniversary.”
It is unclear what role Strickland will have in the film. He is being represented by Fourth Wall Management and this will be his feature film debut.
Swerve Strickland is not waiting for anybody going into 2024 and if Keith Lee wants to have a match with him, then he’s gonna have to work hard for it.
The two former tag team partners were supposed to finally face each other in a singles match at the Worlds End PPV. Hours before the show, however, it was revealed that Lee was not cleared by doctors. This resulted in a last-minute change in the match card, and Dustin Rhodes stepped up to face Strickland in a match instead.
The Limitless One’s injury was addressed at the Worlds End press conference. In response to a question, company president Tony Khan confirmed that Lee wanted to wrestle at the show and detailed why he wasn’t allowed to do so:
“Keith absolutely did want to wrestle. There is a process there and it involves a doctor examining the wrestler every time before they go out and wrestle but also keeping in touch with him during the week. Keith mentioned he got injured in his match at Final Battle. He had a great match with Shane Taylor hard hitting match in Dallas at Final Battle. Then after that, Keith had gotten back in the ring and had a great match with Brian Cage. Did a great number on Collision.
Keith, today when he went in to see the doctor, his injury had gotten worse during the week and really it was worse than it was after the Shane Taylor match and it was worse than it was after the Brian cage match. The swelling had gone up and with the swelling being what it was the doctor didn’t feel comfortable clearing Keith. So it’s a tough call. But the doctor did what he thought was right and I respect the medical team’s decision.”
On the question of this long-anticipated match taking place sometimes later, Swerve Strickland said that he is done waiting. He explained that if Keith really wants to get a shot at him now, he’ll have to do something to earn it:
“It’s quite unfortunate. I’m done waiting though. I don’t wait on anybody. For me. I’ve been waiting for a while now. Now I have my sights set on something else, and that’s championship gold. So either Keith’s gonna have to work harder than ever in 2024 to reach me at that point or reach to the championship or do something, but I’m not waiting on anybody. If the match happens, he’s gonna have to work hard to get to me at this point.”
If you use any quotes from the article please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription
AEW saw a few random injuries throughout 2023 that greatly changed their booking plans. They couldn’t get through the final pay-per-view of the year without being forced to change things up.
Keith Lee was scheduled to take on Swerve Strickland in a singles match at AEW Worlds End, a long-awaited showdown that some fans doubted would ever materialize. Sadly, that match wasn’t meant to be in 2023.
Unexpected Change Of Plans For Keith Lee
In an update on X, Keith Lee shared that he was going to enter the Worlds End match with an injury. Although he did not divulge the specifics of the setback, he assured fans that he is committed to giving his best effort in the upcoming match.
Today… I keep it very real with you guys. I have been working through an injury since Arthur Ashe Stadium 2022.
It has been mostly well taken care of. Things have been worse since Final Battle.
I am trying to get through today for you guys, but I cannot promise anything.
Today… I keep it very real with you guys.
I have been working through an injury since Arthur Ashe Stadium 2022. It has been mostly well taken care of.
Things have been worse since Final Battle. I am trying to get through today for you guys, but I cannot promise anything.
Keith Lee was taken out of AEW Worlds End and Dustin Rhodes was placed in his spot. Swerve Strickland picked up the win against The Natural in the end, which continued his winning streak in AEW.
This is not good news for Keith Lee, and we can only hope that whatever kept him off the AEW Worlds End card isn’t something that will persist far into 2024.
With the round-robin format, there have been plenty of matches from the AEW Continental Classic, which fans will have no trouble finding. On YouTube, the AEW account has created a playlist of every match from the tournament in the order they took place. The playlist starts with the kick-off match between Swerve Strickland and Jay Lethal.
The final two videos are from this week’s Dynamite and see Jon Moxley Vs. Swerve Strickland Vs. Jay White in the Gold League finals and Eddie Kingston Vs. Bryan Danielson in the Blue League finals. The playlist also features weekly updates of the rankings as well as promos and segments connected to the Continental Classic.
This year, All Elite Wrestling superstar Swerve Strickland has become one of the breakout talents on the roster. He’s been featured on AEW TV and involved in big matches, notably against his rival “Hangman” Adam Page. That said, Strickland is looking to have a better year in 2024.
Strickland spoke with Jacksonville, Florida’s News Reporter Scott Johnson on Going Ringside about his plans for the new year. He shared that he’s looking to become an AEW World Champion and believes he could have been the champion if given the opportunity.
“…I said middle of this year, if I would’ve gotten the opportunities that Hangman Page would’ve gotten my first year, I would have been the first African American AEW world champion. And I do believe that. I can still do that. That is the only thing on my mind right now,” said Strickland.
While some fans may take Strickland’s confidence lightly, he has quickly become a superstar that AEW could decide to put the world title on. He’s coming off of the biggest rivalry of his career and won a highly praised Texas Deathmatch over Page at AEW Full Gear on November 18.
Strickland’s recent success and presence could give the company a reason to make him a title challenger in 2024. Currently, he is participating in the round-robin Continental Classic tournament. The winner of the tourney will become the inaugural AEW Triple Crown Champion. He has nine points in the Gold League division of the tournament and is in an excellent position to make it to the semi-finals. However, he needs to win his next match.
Preview Of Swerve Strickland vs. RUSH On AEW Dynamite
In tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite, Strickland will take on RUSH in a Gold League matchup. RUSH has been eliminated from the tournament but likely wants to end the round with a big win.
For Strickland, a win over RUSH advances him to the Continental Classic Semi-Finals on the December 27 episode of AEW Dynamite. If he was to lose, he would have to hope that White, who is tied with him, is defeated by Jon Moxley. The former AEW World Champion is the current leader in the Gold League with 12 points and already has a spot in the next round.
Both matchups will occur on tonight, so fans will want to tune in to see who will advance.