Bobby Lashley remains sidelined in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) after sustaining an injury during the Casino Gauntlet match at AEW Full Gear last November. Despite the setback, Lashley has expressed that he holds no regrets about the risks he has taken while performing in the ring.
The Casino Gauntlet match has garnered attention lately due to a rising number of injuries among AEW talent following these high-stakes bouts. Lashley’s injury is part of this growing list, generating concern among fans and wrestlers alike.
Perspectives on AEW’s Wrestling Culture and Injury Risks
During a recent appearance on The Mega Powers Podcast, Lashley shared insights about his experience within AEW’s locker room environment, distinguishing it from other promotions he has worked with. He praised the unique energy and fan engagement present at AEW events.
One thing, AEW is amazing. You see the crowd right now … no one else is doing that,
Lashley commented.
I’ve been in every organization. That speaks volumes.
He defended the nature of these injuries as a reflection of the wrestlers’ passion and dedication rather than recklessness. According to Lashley, risks are inherent to the craft because performers fully commit their lives to wrestling.
You don’t get injured by doing something you don’t care about,
Lashley said.
You get injured because you’re pouring your whole life into this.
Adapting to AEW’s Wrestling Style and Recognition of Peers
Lashley acknowledged the adjustment required to adapt to AEW’s distinct in-ring style, highlighting certain wrestlers who regularly demonstrate extraordinary physical commitment to entertain the audience. He specifically mentioned Swerve Strickland, Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, Darby Allin, and Jon Moxley as prime examples.
These guys are superstars, Lashley said.
They put themselves on the line to draw people in.
AEW’s Collective Ethos Compared to Other Wrestling Promotions
Finally, Lashley contrasted AEW’s philosophy with that of other major promotions such as WWE and TNA. He noted AEW’s focus on the overall product rather than individual status or financial gain.
In other places, sometimes it’s about who you are,
he explained.
Here it’s, ‘Don’t think about who I am — think about what I’m doing.’ They’re not thinking about money. They’re thinking about making this place amazing.
This attitude, Lashley suggested, contributes to the strong sense of community and artistic dedication within AEW, despite the physical toll it can take on its wrestlers.
