AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland is more than just a top wrestler; He is also an avid wrestler. In a recent appearance on the “Bootleg Cave” podcast, Strickland examined the conflicting philosophies of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and WWE, shedding light on how each promotion relates to the professional wrestling industry
According to Strickland, AEW president Tony Khan’s vision for the company includes a deep appreciation for the true art of wrestling. Khan’s emphasis on top-notch in-ring action dovetails with Strickland’s view of AEW as a refreshing alternative to WWE’s mainstream system driven by sports entertainment
“[WWE] always had great talent, and just the thing was something special…they wanted to present something that was sports entertainment,” Strickland admitted. “That’s why they made their bread and butter, that’s what they do, nobody does it better than them.”
In contrast, AEW sought to carve out its own identity by focusing on the essence of professional wrestling. Strickland has delivered on the importance of providing a platform where wrestlers can express themselves creatively and deliver the wrestling they love.
“We wanted to build our narrative, our alternative, to what’s unique to us and what we the fan base was missing at the time, and what the industry needed,” Strickland explained.
The AEW roster’s diverse array of talent, including former WWE stars like Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, and Adam Cole, has thrived in this environment, finding newfound inspiration and creative freedom.
“We’ve seen [Jon] Moxley come over…showing his rejuvenation in the wrestling. Bryan Danielson? Rejuvenated. Adam Cole? Rejuvenated. Myself, rejuvenated, and letting the creators and the artists create,” Strickland remarked.
In addition, Strickland pointed to AEW’s willingness to push boundaries and explore edgier content, citing his upcoming opponent Christian Cage’s transformation as a testament to Khan’s penchant for pushing the envelope.
With AEW’s commitment to prioritizing in-ring action and fostering a culture of creativity, Strickland believes the promotion offers a unique platform for wrestlers to thrive and fans to experience the pure essence of professional wrestling.
Strickland’s perspective highlights AEW’s reputation for providing a platform where wrestlers can showcase their talents to the fullest. With an emphasis on athleticism, storytelling, and innovation, AEW offers performers the opportunity to push the boundaries of what is possible in the ring and connect with fans on a deeper level.
Moreover, AEW’s commitment to fostering a culture of creativity empowers wrestlers to express themselves authentically and pursue their artistic visions without limitations. This environment not only encourages innovation and experimentation but also cultivates a sense of community and collaboration among performers, leading to memorable and impactful moments in the ring.
For fans, AEW’s dedication to delivering high-quality in-ring action and compelling storytelling provides an immersive and engaging experience that captures the essence of professional wrestling. By prioritizing the art form and staying true to its core principles, AEW continues to resonate with audiences around the world and shape the future of the industry.
Overall, Strickland’s belief in AEW’s ability to provide a unique platform for wrestlers and fans alike reflects the promotion’s commitment to excellence and innovation. As AEW continues to grow and evolve, it remains a beacon of creativity and excitement in the world of professional wrestling, offering a dynamic and immersive experience for all who tune in.
