AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland has hit back at Grayson Waller after the WWE Tag Team Champion made a dig at the All-Elite promotion.
Waller recently said that he was excited to bring good wrestling to Jacksonville, FL at a WWE live event. Jacksonville is the ‘home’ of AEW and has hosted several AEW shows.
In a recent interview with “News4Jax”, Strickland gave his response and had a high estimation of AEW’s standing in the world of wrestling. He said,
“Obviously [it was a shot at AEW]. I love the subtleties. This person that said that, congratulations on their championship gold. Amazing. You were awesome when you were watching me in the seats when I was being a champion over where you were as well. Happy to see where you progressed to, but let’s be real, we are the best wrestling. Not just in Jacksonville, but anywhere. In the world. I stand on business on that.”
Strickland was NXT North American Champion when Waller started with WWE. He captured the AEW World Championship at AEW Dynasty last week.
AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland Fires Back at Grayson Waller’s Dig at All-Elite Wrestling
In a recent exchange of words between professional wrestlers, AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland has responded to WWE Tag Team Champion Grayson Waller’s comments about bringing “good wrestling” to Jacksonville, FL, the home of All-Elite Wrestling.
Waller’s remarks came during a WWE live event, where he expressed his excitement about showcasing quality wrestling in Jacksonville. However, given the fact that AEW has held numerous successful shows in the city, Strickland saw Waller’s comments as a direct shot at his promotion.
During an interview with “News4Jax,” Strickland didn’t hold back in defending AEW’s reputation in the wrestling industry. He acknowledged Waller’s championship success but reminded him of his own accomplishments while Waller was still a spectator in the audience.
“Obviously [it was a shot at AEW]. I love the subtleties. This person that said that, congratulations on their championship gold. Amazing. You were awesome when you were watching me in the seats when I was being a champion over where you were as well,” Strickland said. He continued, “Happy to see where you progressed to, but let’s be real, we are the best wrestling. Not just in Jacksonville, but anywhere. In the world. I stand on business on that.”
Strickland’s confidence in AEW’s standing is not unfounded. The promotion has gained significant traction since its inception and has attracted a loyal fanbase with its unique blend of athleticism, storytelling, and innovative matches. With top-tier talent from around the world, AEW has consistently delivered high-quality wrestling entertainment.
It is worth noting that Strickland held the NXT North American Championship when Waller first joined WWE. Since then, Strickland has risen to new heights by capturing the prestigious AEW World Championship at the recent AEW Dynasty event.
The exchange between Strickland and Waller highlights the ongoing rivalry between AEW and WWE, two of the biggest wrestling promotions globally. While competition is healthy for the industry, it also fuels passionate debates among fans and wrestlers alike.
As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that AEW has established itself as a force to be reckoned with. Strickland’s bold statement reflects the confidence and determination of AEW’s roster to provide fans with unparalleled wrestling experiences.
In the end, only time will tell if Waller’s comments will ignite a new chapter in the AEW-WWE rivalry or serve as mere banter between competitors. However, one thing remains certain – AEW and its World Champion, Swerve Strickland, are ready to defend their claim as the best wrestling promotion in the world, regardless of location.