In a recent conversation with Z100 New York’s “Superstar Crossover,” wrestler Swerve Strickland touched on his infamous Texas Death match with Hangman Page at AEW Full Gear 2023. During this comprehensive interview, Strickland shared his perspective on the match and the bold strategy adopted.
Strickland shared insights into their decision to push the limits while fighting, saying “We stepped into the ring with the understanding that anything under it can be utilized.” He added that both wrestlers felt free to explore and challenge the boundaries of the match in search of unique and exciting moves. Swerve drew parallels with his daring matches in Los Angeles, especially with AR Fox in Lucha Underground, where they constantly strived to outdo each other. He praised the overall quality of the match, indicating that despite the brutal elements, the athleticism and skills of the wrestlers were not overshadowed.
Discussing the challenge of competing with Page, Strickland articulated his need to have a significant impact. He pondered, “Given what Hangman Page has previously accomplished in AEW and even back in New Japan, where exactly do I fit in his narrative?” He shared the pressure to stand out and match up to the former World Champion while listing out Page’s “bangers” matches with Kenny, Bryan Danielson, and the Young Bucks. Making an analogy, he said he chose to “kick the door open” and aimed to outdo all of Page’s previous challengers.
The full interview with Swerve Strickland, where he discusses these insights and more about his career, can be viewed at [embedded content].