During a recent interview with iHeart Radio Cincy, AEW wrestler Swerve Strickland commented on how he identifies with AEW, what’s bringing him to the forefront of wrestling, and more.
You can check out some highlights from the interview below:
On how he identifies with AEW: “I can identify with AEW in a lot of ways because when I first came to AEW, a lot of people didn’t look at me as being in the position that I’m in now. Consistency and growth and staying focused and out of a lot of bullcrap really kept me going, progressing, and moving forward. Putting my ego aside. Following humility. Being a team player and understanding where my position is and where I want to go, but also understanding, ‘No, I’m ready.’ Knowing when to push the limits a little bit. That is what AEW is all about. When I was watching and seeing it from 2021 and 2022 when I came in, it was about pushing those boundaries, challenging the authority and structure of how pro wrestling was breaking a little, and creating and making things your own. Proving those naysayers wrong and doing things your way”
On what’s bringing him to the forefront of wrestling: “There’s a lot of doubt and criticisms to face, and still face to this day. I still face those things to this day, so I can relate and see myself in what AEW is. I feel like that relationship is what’s bringing me to the forefront of pro wrestling right now, especially an African American man, we already face certain criticisms with moving goalposts and certain things, which aren’t discussed about, but they are always there, those little talks are and we see it and hear it, and I feel it. To break the mold, that’s what I’m here to do.”
Swerve Strickland will challenge Samoa Joe for the AEW World Title at next weekend’s AEW Dynasty pay-per-view event.
In a recent interview with iHeart Radio Cincy, AEW wrestler Swerve Strickland opened up about his identification with AEW, what has propelled him to the forefront of wrestling, and more. Strickland’s insights shed light on his journey and the challenges he has faced as an African American man in the industry.
When asked about how he identifies with AEW, Strickland expressed his ability to relate to the promotion on multiple levels. Initially, many people did not view him as being in the position he currently holds. However, through consistency, growth, focus, and avoiding unnecessary drama, Strickland has been able to progress and move forward. He attributes his success to putting his ego aside, embracing humility, being a team player, understanding his position, and knowing when to push boundaries. These qualities align with AEW’s ethos of challenging authority and creating a unique wrestling experience. Strickland recognized that AEW was breaking the mold and aimed to prove the naysayers wrong by doing things his own way.
Strickland also discussed what has brought him to the forefront of wrestling. He acknowledged the doubts and criticisms he has faced throughout his career, which continue to persist. As an African American man, he understands the additional challenges and moving goalposts that exist within the industry. These issues are often overlooked but are always present. Strickland aims to break the mold and overcome these barriers, using his platform to challenge stereotypes and pave the way for others.
In an exciting development, Strickland will be challenging Samoa Joe for the AEW World Title at the upcoming AEW Dynasty pay-per-view event. This opportunity further solidifies his position as a prominent figure in professional wrestling.
Swerve Strickland’s journey in AEW serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers and individuals facing similar challenges. His ability to overcome adversity, embrace humility, and stay focused on his goals is a testament to his character and determination. As he continues to make strides in the industry, Strickland is breaking barriers and reshaping the landscape of professional wrestling.