On a recent edition of the “Sports Guys Talking Wrestling” podcast, Dustin Rhodes discussed AEW opening the door for CMLL and NJPW talent to appear for the company.
AEW began working with CMLL last month and has partnered with NJPW for a few years now.
You can check out the highlights from the podcast below:
On AEW working with NJPW and CMLL: “These guys are special, they have perfected their craft down there in Mexico. I love it here and everybody’s doing such a good job.”
On his work in AJPW in the 1990s: “Going to Japan is just probably one of my funniest places to go to. Everybody treats you like a king over there.”
On the Japanese audience’s more restrained reactions: “It’s a lot harder to get that energy from them. Everywhere in America where we’ve been has a few loud towns here and there but Texas always comes out … They believe in it, man, and they’re feeding us. We’re going off their energy. It makes for better shows. When that energy’s there, we’re on top of the world.”
In a recent episode of the “Sports Guys Talking Wrestling” podcast, Dustin Rhodes, a professional wrestler and current member of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), discussed the company’s collaboration with Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). This partnership has opened the door for talent from these organizations to appear in AEW events.
AEW, a relatively new wrestling promotion, has been making waves in the industry since its inception in 2019. Known for its focus on athleticism, storytelling, and fan engagement, AEW has quickly gained a loyal following. In an effort to provide fans with fresh and exciting matchups, the company has been collaborating with other wrestling organizations, such as CMLL and NJPW.
CMLL, based in Mexico, is one of the oldest and most prestigious wrestling promotions in the world. With a rich history dating back to 1933, CMLL has produced numerous legendary wrestlers and has a strong fan base. By working with CMLL, AEW is able to tap into the talent pool of Mexican wrestling and showcase the unique styles and characters that have made CMLL famous.
NJPW, on the other hand, is a Japanese wrestling promotion that has been around since 1972. Known for its hard-hitting action and strong emphasis on in-ring competition, NJPW has gained international recognition in recent years. AEW’s partnership with NJPW allows for cross-promotional opportunities, where wrestlers from both companies can compete against each other and create dream matches that fans have been clamoring for.
During the podcast, Dustin Rhodes expressed his admiration for the talent from CMLL and NJPW. He acknowledged their dedication to their craft and praised their performances in the ring. Rhodes also shared his personal experience working in All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) during the 1990s, highlighting the warm reception he received from the Japanese audience.
One notable difference Rhodes mentioned was the more restrained reactions from the Japanese audience compared to American crowds. While American wrestling fans are known for their loud and passionate reactions, the Japanese audience tends to be more reserved. Despite this, Rhodes emphasized the importance of feeding off the energy of the crowd, as it enhances the overall quality of the show.
The collaboration between AEW, CMLL, and NJPW not only benefits the companies involved but also provides fans with a wider variety of wrestling styles and matchups. It allows for the exchange of talent, showcasing the best wrestlers from different parts of the world. This cross-promotion creates excitement and anticipation among fans, as they get to witness dream matches that were previously only possible in their imaginations.
In conclusion, AEW’s partnership with CMLL and NJPW has opened up new opportunities for talent exchange and cross-promotion. By working together, these wrestling promotions are able to provide fans with unique and thrilling matchups. The collaboration not only benefits the companies involved but also adds to the overall growth and development of professional wrestling as a global phenomenon.