In the electrifying world of AEW, every match tells a story, and some stories linger longer than others. Wardlow, the powerhouse of the ring, recently shared a heartfelt reflection on what should have been a triumphant moment in his career, marking the anniversary of a pivotal match that left him with a heavy heart.
Five years have passed since Wardlow first stepped into the AEW arena in 2019, initially making waves as the formidable bodyguard of Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known as MJF. Their partnership seemed unbreakable, a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling. However, fate had other plans, and in 2022, their paths diverged in a clash that would resonate through the annals of AEW history.
At the AEW Double or Nothing 2022 PPV, Wardlow faced off against his former ally, MJF, in a showdown that promised to be legendary. The anticipation crackled in the air as fans speculated about the state of their fractured partnership and MJF’s rumored discontent with his role in AEW. What followed was a match of seismic proportions, culminating in Wardlow’s victory over MJF after a relentless barrage of 10 Powerbombs, sealing the deal in a mere seven minutes.
However, beneath the surface of triumph, there lay a shadow of sorrow for Wardlow. In a candid moment shared with fans on social media, he confessed to the bittersweet nature of that fateful night, hinting at untold depths of emotion surrounding the event. While Wardlow chose not to delve into specifics, his words echoed with a sense of longing for redemption, a promise of brighter days yet to come.
“I hear you every day. It’s what’s kept me going the past year. Sad how tainted this night was for me. But we will get back to this one day. On my life. For anyone that’s chanted my name, even when you didn’t have much of a reason to, it’s meant the world to me. Thank you 🙏🏽”
As the wrestling world continues to evolve, Wardlow finds himself navigating new alliances and challenges within the ranks of AEW. Despite his undeniable talent and past successes, he now stands alongside the Undisputed Kingdom, a formidable faction led by Adam Cole, Roderick Strong, Matt Taven, and Mike Bennett. Yet, whispers among fans suggest that Wardlow’s potential remains untapped, relegated to a supporting role within the group.
In the realm of championships, Wardlow’s legacy shines bright, with three reigns as the TNT Champion under his belt, totaling an impressive 189 days. His dominance in the ring is undeniable, a testament to his prowess as one of AEW’s most formidable competitors.
As Wardlow reflects on the twists and turns of his AEW journey, one thing remains certain: his story is far from over. With each match, each victory, and each setback, he continues to carve his path towards greatness, fueled by the unwavering support of fans who have stood by him through every triumph and tribulation.
Stephen’s Value:
In an industry where every match is a chapter in a larger narrative, Wardlow’s story stands out as a testament to the raw emotion and unyielding passion that fuels the world of professional wrestling. As he grapples with the ghosts of his past and forges ahead into an uncertain future, the wrestling community watches with bated breath, eager to see what the next chapter holds for this enigmatic competitor.
