A Champion’s Perspective: Inside AEW and WWE
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) World Champion Swerve Strickland has experienced both sides of the wrestling world. With a career that has spanned across both AEW and WWE, Strickland offers unique insights into the differences between these two major promotions. In a recent interview on the “Bootleg Kev” podcast, he shared his observations, highlighting the distinct approaches and philosophies that set AEW apart from WWE.
Tony Khan’s Vision: Wrestling First
Strickland emphasized AEW President Tony Khan’s passion for wrestling, which has shaped AEW’s identity. “Tony Khan enjoys seeing good wrestling and has modeled his company around putting the focus on the in-ring action,” Strickland noted. This focus on pure wrestling contrasts sharply with WWE’s emphasis on sports entertainment.
Sports Entertainment vs. Professional Wrestling
“WWE has always had great talent,” Strickland acknowledged. “But their product was primarily something they wanted to present as sports entertainment. That’s what they built their bread and butter from, and nobody does it better than them.” Strickland believes AEW offers an alternative by prioritizing the kind of wrestling that appeals to a different segment of the fanbase—those who crave intense, in-ring action over dramatic storylines.
Swerve Strickland was on busted open radio & he spoke of old promoters who refused to pay him back in the day. Now that he’s arrived as the AEW world champion one of them showed up with cash to pay him back. @swerveconfident said “no man I’m good I don’t need that money anymore “ pic.twitter.com/hzwcwaD7qi
— AFW (@AllFNWrestling) June 5, 2024
AEW’s Unique Narrative
Strickland explained that AEW needed to establish its own narrative to stand out in the wrestling industry. “We wanted to build our narrative, our alternative, to what’s unique to us and what the fanbase was missing at the time, and what the industry needed,” he said. AEW has become a place where wrestlers can perform the type of wrestling they are passionate about, without the constraints often found in WWE’s sports entertainment model.
Swerve Strickland was on busted open radio & he spoke of old promoters who refused to pay him back in the day. Now that he’s arrived as the AEW world champion one of them showed up with cash to pay him back. @swerveconfident said “no man I’m good I don’t need that money anymore “ pic.twitter.com/hzwcwaD7qi
— AFW (@AllFNWrestling) June 5, 2024
Rejuvenation of Talent
Several wrestlers have found new life in AEW, according to Strickland. He cited examples such as Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, Adam Cole, and himself, all of whom have experienced a resurgence in their careers since joining AEW. “We’ve seen 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 stated.
Christian Cage: A Transformative Journey
One of the standout examples of AEW’s impact on talent is Christian Cage. Strickland highlighted Cage’s evolution in AEW, noting how he has embraced more volatile material, which reflects Tony Khan’s willingness to push boundaries. “Tony Khan gets a kick out of pushing boundaries and seeing how much his performers can do and get away with,” Strickland explained. This freedom has allowed Cage to explore new facets of his character, further demonstrating AEW’s commitment to creative liberty.
The Appeal of AEW to Former WWE Stars
AEW has turned into a sanctuary for ex-WWE wrestlers seeking a new beginning. Wrestlers such as Moxley, Danielson, and Cole have discovered a renewed purpose in AEW due to the company’s focus on in-ring skills and artistic liberty. Strickland is proof of this revival, experiencing a new sense of passion and achievement in AEW.
The influence on supporters and the sector.
Strickland’s remarks underscore the wider influence AEW has had on the wrestling sector. AEW has gained a loyal following and given wrestlers a platform to display their talents in a way that connects with them, offering a unique option compared to WWE’s sports entertainment style. This method has not just revived jobs but also enhanced the wrestling scene by presenting various styles and storylines.
What lies ahead for AEW and WWE in the future?
As AEW expands and develops further, its emphasis on wrestling and artistic autonomy remains a fundamental characteristic. Strickland’s observations highlight the significance of this ideology in setting AEW apart from WWE and aiding in its achievements. Under Tony Khan’s leadership, AEW is ready to keep questioning norms and pushing the limits of pro wrestling.
Swerve Strickland provides a captivating examination of the differences between AEW and WWE through his experiences and observations. His thoughts on AEW’s emphasis on wrestling, creative independence, and reviving talent offer a more in-depth look into what sets AEW apart as a distinctive and impactful presence in the wrestling industry. As AEW solidifies its position in the field, it serves as proof of the importance of embracing wrestling as both a sport and an art form, providing fans and wrestlers with an alternative that highlights the core of professional wrestling.
