Swerve Strickland isnt holding back when it comes to AEWs impact on the wrestling business. The former AEW World Champion believes that some of WWEs biggest names today wouldnt have reached their current level without first making their mark in AEW.
During an appearance on the Bootleg Kev podcast, Strickland pointed out how AEW has helped shape major careers, especially for stars who eventually returned to WWE. He specifically mentioned Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and Ricky Starks as examples of wrestlers who became bigger deals thanks to their time in AEW.
He also brought up Mercedes Mones transition from WWE to AEW, claiming that her stock has skyrocketed since making the move. Sasha Banks had value, Mercedes has more value now because of All Elite Wrestling, he said.
Strickland even suggested that Mones rise in AEW could be making top WWE stars question their own paths. Mercedes was the one that did big for the women now it makes Becky Lynch look like a little hmm maybe. It makes New Day go, hmm maybe. Charlotte Flair, I wonder, maybe, he added.
Strickland isnt just talkinghes putting AEWs influence front and center, making it clear that the company has played a major role in shaping todays biggest wrestling stars. Whether its Cody Rhodes headlining WrestleMania, CM Punks shocking WWE return, or Mercedes Mone becoming one of the most talked-about names in AEW, the proof is there. Now, with Strickland calling out WWEs top talent, you have to wonderwhos next to make the jump?
Do you think CMPunk and Cody Rhodes are more valuable because of AEW? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
