Bobby Lashley has called on wrestling fans to support Shelton Benjamin, highlighting his character as a reason to rally behind him. Speaking recently, Lashley emphasized that beyond Benjamin’s in-ring skills, he is a fundamentally good person who merits respect and encouragement.
Lashley and Shelton Benjamin’s careers have been closely connected over recent years, beginning with their partnership in WWE’s The Hurt Business faction, and continuing into AEW’s The Hurt Syndicate, where MVP also plays a pivotal role. Their professional and personal ties have only strengthened the message Lashley shared about Benjamin’s positive character traits.
Lashley’s Perspective on Shelton Benjamin’s Integrity and Work Ethic
During an appearance on the Mega Powers podcast, Lashley praised Benjamin’s work ethic and his straightforward nature. He pointed out that Shelton fits well within AEW because of his genuine approach and willingness to advocate for himself respectfully. Lashley’s remarks focused on the importance of who a wrestler is off the mat, as much as their skills inside the ring.
Shelton’s one of those people, he fits into AEW because he’s just a real ass dude who likes to work hard. But he will speak up for himself. In a very, like, mild way. But to the core, people from the core, he’s a person that you should get behind because to the core, he’s a great person. That’s, I don’t give a fuck what you do in the ring. I don’t care if you do it six times. I don’t give a shit. If you’re not a good person… I don’t give a fuck if you’re good on a mic, I don’t give a fuck if you’re good in a ring. If you’re a good person, you guys understand that shit. How can you not get behind somebody that’s a good person?
– Bobby Lashley, Professional Wrestler
Context of Lashley’s Comments Among AEW Stars and Events
Within the same interview, Lashley also reflected on the talent roster in AEW, acknowledging many individuals as true superstars. His positive remarks about Shelton Benjamin stand out amid the recognition of other top performers in the company.
Benjamin’s position in AEW and his background with Lashley adds further weight to Lashley’s endorsement, highlighting how personal respect in wrestling often influences fan perception and support. This stance contributes to ongoing conversations about character and credibility within wrestling communities.
Broader Wrestling Scene and Recent Event Highlights
While Lashley’s focus was on Shelton Benjamin, the wrestling scene continues to be dynamic, as seen in events like the recent Orange Crush Presents Superpower Slam featuring JetSpeed, Janelasus, and Willow Nightingale, as well as updates from international promotions like NJPW with Hirooki Goto’s headline match. Injuries and recoveries, such as Marigold’s Kizuna Tanaka’s surgeries for ankle issues, also shape the current environment.
Wrestlers like Queen Aminata have expressed hopes about returning to full-time competition, reflecting a broader theme of resilience and dedication that resonates with Lashley’s views on Benjamin.
Significance of Lashley’s Call to Support Shelton Benjamin
Bobby Lashley’s encouragement for fans to back Shelton Benjamin underscores the importance of integrity and character in professional wrestling. As Shelton continues to perform in AEW, Lashley’s endorsement may influence fan opinions and bring renewed attention to Benjamin’s career. This could also inspire other wrestlers and fans to value personal qualities alongside athletic talent, shifting some focus toward the human element behind the entertainment.
With AEW’s growing platform and the ongoing evolution of wrestling narratives, supporting personalities like Shelton Benjamin contributes to fostering a community that prioritizes respect, hard work, and professionalism, potentially impacting how wrestlers are perceived and celebrated going forward.
