AEW wrestlers recently reflected on some of their past pay-per-view matches that might have caused unease among viewers. One notable event was at AEW All Out 2024 where Hangman Adam Page battled Swerve Strickland in a “Lights Out” unsanctioned steel cage match. This type of match allowed for more intense and extreme actions, including the use of medical syringes, which Swerve Strickland addressed during an interview on Insight with Chris Van Vleet. He acknowledged that the appearance of needles can trigger anxiety for many fans, explaining that the fear of needles is a real concern and even shared that the syringe used in the match pierced his cheek. Strickland highlighted that such a risky and unsanctioned fight is rare in major televised wrestling promotions, which is part of why it was done. He also touched on how John Cena’s approach in WWE has influenced his interactions with AEW’s owner Tony Khan.
Fan Take: This glimpse into AEW’s willingness to push boundaries with extreme match elements shows their commitment to delivering fresh and intense wrestling experiences, even if it makes some fans uncomfortable. It underscores AEW’s unique identity in the wrestling world, promising fans bold storytelling and unforgettable moments that keep the sport evolving.
