AEW wrestler Johnny TV, formerly known as John Morrison in WWE, recently shared the origin of his signature finisher, Starship Pain. During a conversation on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Johnny described how the move, a split-legged corkscrew moonsault, came to be and why it stands out in wrestling.
Development and Challenges of Perfecting the Move
Johnny explained that while it’s difficult to claim any wrestling move is entirely original, he had not seen anyone execute the Starship Pain the way he does. The move involves a rapid, split-legged corkscrew performed in mid-air, differentiating it from similar aerial techniques.
He detailed his experience performing another high-risk maneuver, called a Yang Time, a twisting moonsault off the top rope used in OVW, a wrestling developmental territory. Although visually impressive, he said it put too much strain on his body, particularly the knees.
Johnny also mentioned Matt Sydal’s struggles with the Shooting Star Press, a high-flying move Sydal is famous for, explaining how repeatedly attempting such maneuvers in every match can increase injury risk. After landing awkwardly on his knee from his prior move, Johnny realized that continuing to perform it four nights a week was unsustainable.
Technical Sophistication and Physical Considerations of Starship Pain
The split-legged corkscrew is a much more difficult skill technically, but less impactful on the body. It’s a really good combo of spectacle because it’s fast, it’s very difficult, but it doesn’t trash your knees as bad as the top rope one does.
– Johnny TV, AEW Wrestler
This comment highlights the delicate balance Johnny aimed for: creating a move that dazzles fans with its complexity and speed while minimizing damage to his body over repeated performances. The Starship Pain has since become a reliable and signature finisher for Johnny TV in AEW.
Impact on His Wrestling Career and Audience Reception
The move’s design has helped Johnny maintain longevity in the ring by reducing injury risk, which is crucial for a wrestler who competes frequently. Fans and peers alike recognize the Starship Pain for its unique flair and technical difficulty, setting Johnny apart from others who perform more traditional moonsault-based finishers.
Although Johnny once competed in WWE as John Morrison and has addressed his ambitions for a world championship there, Starship Pain is now strongly identified with his time in AEW.
Why Understanding Starship Pain’s Origins Matters
As high-impact wrestling moves evolve, performers must balance athletic spectacle with physical sustainability. Johnny TV’s experience with the Starship Pain exemplifies how innovation in wrestling can come from adapting techniques to protect the body while still thrilling audiences. His openness about the move’s origins provides insight into the thought and care behind wrestling stunts that fans often take for granted.
