Orange Cassidy marked six years with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) this week, reflecting on his unique Orange Cassidy AEW career as a standout presence without embracing the label of “AEW Pillar.” Known for his laid-back persona, Cassidy has grown into one of AEW’s most popular stars since his debut in 2019. As AEW celebrates the anniversary of its flagship show Dynamite, Cassidy prepares to challenge Kyle Fletcher for the TNT Championship in Hollywood, Florida.
Originally signed early in AEW’s history, Cassidy has been a constant on AEW programming, often providing a contrast with his calm demeanor amidst intense matches. During the pandemic, he wrestled regularly at Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida, a period he credits for truly developing his in-ring career and bonding with fans who supported the company through difficult times.
Reflecting on His Roots: Returning to Florida for a High-Stakes Match
Cassidy expressed mixed feelings about returning to Florida for AEW’s six-year special event, where he will replace his injured Conglomeration teammate, Hologram. Facing Kyle Fletcher for the TNT Championship, Cassidy acknowledges the growth Fletcher has made as a competitor, highlighting a transformation shaped by mentorship from Don Callis and Fletcher’s own dedication.
“We spent a year and a half or two years, I don’t even remember at this point, in Florida during the pandemic. To me, Jacksonville and Daily’s Place is like, I think the first time I really felt like I was wrestling weekly. That program with Chris Jericho, it defines some of my career, so I’m grateful for those moments, and it’ll be nice to get back to give the Florida fans and the state of Florida who were there to support us during that time, show them what we have become, what we have blossomed into since those early days.”
– Orange Cassidy
Reflecting on Fletcher’s progression since their last meeting at the 2023 Double or Nothing’s Blackjack Battle Royal, Cassidy notes a significant evolution in his opponent’s skill and presence in the ring.
“I felt the greatness in the ring, and I felt who he is today in that moment. The fact that he’s only gotten better doesn’t go well for me. I don’t know. He’s turned into what we all thought he was going to turn into, which is probably the scariest thing ever.”
– Orange Cassidy
Highlighting Character-Defining Moments in Cassidy’s AEW Career
Beyond championship bouts, Orange Cassidy’s career has been punctuated by unexpected, often humorous moments that have endeared him to fans. One iconic memory involves an unscripted interaction with Sting during Dynamite: Fyter Fest in July 2021, a moment Cassidy cherishes for its spontaneity and the camaraderie it revealed within the AEW locker room.
“I didn’t tell Sting anything, and Sting just did it. So that’s another person that we’re very fortunate enough to have in our locker room. He made our locker room better. He was a great leader, and for him to play with me was an honor. I didn’t tell him to do anything. He’s the one who did it. Blame him. Blame him for that.”
– Orange Cassidy
Cassidy also emphasized how moments that showcase his character’s subtle intentions resonate deeply with him. He reminisced about a 2019 backstage altercation during an episode of Dynamite, which silently captured Orange Cassidy’s essence better than many verbal promos.
“I believe [Mike] Santana threw Nick [Jackson] into the bathroom, and I was standing there, and then they left, and that was it. It’s going to sound weird, but that pretty much sums up Orange Cassidy. I was glad that the world could see that, the television audience could see. That’s probably my first and probably one of my most favorite moments, probably.”
– Orange Cassidy
The Role AEW Played in Cassidy’s Growth and Its Effects on Wrestling Culture
As AEW surpassed the longevity of WCW Monday Nitro on Turner networks this year, the company celebrated over half a decade of influence in pro wrestling, distinguishing itself through performers who challenge traditional superstar molds. Orange Cassidy stands out among those who have redefined what it means to be a wrestling personality, combining humor, skill, and a laid-back style unique to AEW’s brand.
While Cassidy credits AEW President Tony Khan for trusting his unconventional approach, he gives much of the credit to the fans who embraced him before his television debut, recognizing a fresh presence that would evolve into a fan favorite.
“I think it’s really the fans’ fault because they were very open and receptive before AEW, before Tony Khan really knew who I was, and they were reacting. I think it allowed them to be like, ‘All right, well, if they’re reacting, he must know something that we don’t.’ I was very lucky that the fans were reacting to what I was doing.”
– Orange Cassidy
He also appreciates Khan’s support and understanding, noting that this collaborative environment enabled him to develop his character while continuing to pursue wrestling seriously.
“He still works very close to me about what I’m doing. It’s nice to have your boss understand what you’re doing and facilitate it. I could have got pigeonholed somewhere else. It could have been the same thing we see all the other times, but I think he allowed me to do this stuff because he also knew that I wanted to wrestle, too. That was nice.”
– Orange Cassidy
Despite the widespread use of the term “pillar” among AEW fans and performers to describe foundational wrestlers, Cassidy distances himself from the label. Instead, he sees his place in AEW as more nuanced, focusing on the impact of his distinct character and the meaningful connections forged throughout his tenure.
“I’m just very grateful to be a part of AEW and to be a part of the history. I do like that when you think of AEW, you have to at least think of me, and that feels very special.”
– Orange Cassidy
Looking Ahead to a Critical TNT Championship Showdown
Orange Cassidy’s upcoming match against Kyle Fletcher for the TNT Championship marks a significant moment in his AEW journey, especially as it coincides with the six-year anniversary of Dynamite. The event will take place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, and broadcast live on TBS with simulcast availability on HBO Max starting at 8 p.m. ET.
This high-profile contest not only highlights Cassidy’s enduring presence in AEW but also exemplifies the company’s commitment to presenting diverse and compelling talent. With Fletcher having grown into a formidable opponent, fans can expect an intense clash showcasing the evolving talent within AEW’s ranks.
