The Unsanctioned Steel Cage match between Swerve Strickland and Hangman Page at AEW All Out 2024, dubbed "Lights Out," is widely regarded as one of the most brutal matches ever held on American soil. The intense rivalry between the two wrestlers featured extreme elements like concrete blocks, the ashes of part of Strickland’s childhood home, and a syringe as weapons. The syringe, in particular, sparked controversy due to concerns about its use in wrestling. However, during a recent Insight podcast interview, Strickland defended the syringe’s inclusion, explaining that its shock factor was fitting for such a high-profile, violent match. He noted that many people fear needles and that the moment the needle pierced his cheek was especially impactful. When asked if it hurt, Strickland simply replied, "I felt it."
Strickland also addressed mixed reactions online, acknowledging that while some found the spot excessive, it was appropriate for this specific match against Hangman, especially since the match was unsanctioned and held in a steel cage. He emphasized that he wouldn’t use such a tactic against anyone else and that the physical punishment was part of the storytelling, especially since Hangman had already suffered serious injuries earlier in the bout.
Following the syringe incident, Strickland took a chair shot that resulted in a knockout, leading to his victory over Hangman Page. This moment also stirred debate among fans and experts due to modern concerns over concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Strickland openly admitted how much the hit affected him, describing the impact as if he was struck by two fists on opposite sides of his head. He likened the gritty, unforgiving nature of the match to a showdown where retribution catches up with those who have done wrong to achieve success.
Strickland saw his character’s suffering as karmic justice for his earlier actions in AEW, regardless of whether the fans cheered him or not. Despite the intense rivalry, AEW fans continue to support Strickland, whose popularity has grown since his return at AEW Full Gear 2025. Recently, Strickland and Hangman Page appeared to bury the hatchet, teaming up to defeat the current AEW Men’s World Champion, Samoa Joe, signaling potential new storylines ahead.
If quoting the article, please credit “Insight” and give a hat tip to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
Fan Take: This match is a landmark moment for AEW, showcasing the promotion’s willingness to push boundaries and tell deeply personal, hard-hitting stories inside the ring. For fans, it underscores AEW’s commitment to evolving wrestling into a spectacle that blends raw emotion with jaw-dropping physicality, potentially setting new standards for storytelling in the sport.
