Swerve Strickland, an All Elite Wrestling standout, publicly celebrated Trick Williams following his WWE SmackDown debut, showing support for his fellow wrestler’s arrival on the blue brand this week. WWE SmackDown debut Trick Williams made headlines after declaring himself a free agent and stepping into the ring for the first time on WWE’s flagship Friday program.
Trick Williams Steps Onto WWE SmackDown After Free Agency Declaration
Following his announcement as a free agent during the December 26, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown and a heated confrontation with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, Trick Williams officially joined the SmackDown roster. Williams, who previously held championships in both NXT and TNA, quickly found himself in a tense exchange with Sami Zayn—often referred to as the “Underdog from the Underground.” Williams immediately touted his career accomplishments, but Zayn cautioned him, implying Williams still had much to learn in WWE’s spotlight.
Later backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis and Rey Fenix encountered an agitated Williams, who was reacting to his earlier segment with Zayn. After a brief but pointed interaction with Fenix, Aldis confirmed that Williams would mark his first official SmackDown match next week in Berlin, Germany, going head-to-head with Fenix in what is sure to be a closely watched contest.
The night marked a dynamic and influential main roster debut for Williams, ensuring he drew attention not only from WWE fans but also from competitors in rival promotions.
Swerve Strickland Shows Support Online With Signature Phrase
Among those who took notice was
“The Most Dangerous Man in AEW,”
Swerve Strickland. Taking to social media platform X, Strickland echoed Trick Williams’ famous catchphrase as a gesture of camaraderie within the wrestling community, with both athletes being prominent African-American performers on major wrestling stages.
“#whoopthattrick”— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) January 3, 2026
This public message quickly gained attention, especially as Strickland had recently challenged for the AEW World Championship at the Worlds End event. Although he competed fiercely against Adam Page, Samoa Joe, and event winner MJF, Strickland did not claim the title. Nonetheless, Strickland’s continued activity in AEW and his outreach to WWE talent illustrates his engagement across wrestling brands.
Looking Ahead: Growing Momentum for Both Competitors
Trick Williams is set to further establish his reputation as he prepares for his first WWE SmackDown match in Berlin, facing off against Rey Fenix. Meanwhile, Swerve Strickland remains prominent within AEW’s storylines, recently re-engaging with rivals on Dynamite alongside famed opponents such as Adam Page and MJF. As both wrestlers advance on their respective paths, Strickland’s public encouragement adds to the recognition of Williams’ significant WWE debut, highlighting cross-promotional respect among wrestling’s elite.
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) January 3, 2026
