Former AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland recently addressed remarks made by Hall of Famer Booker T, who suggested Strickland should eliminate his “bad habits” and criticized Je’Von Evans in the process. This exchange took place in the context of Strickland’s influence on younger wrestlers and was shared widely on social media.
Following Ringside News’ sharing of Booker T’s comments, Strickland reacted by quoting the post with the phrase “(Trademarks ‘BAD HABITS’).” When a fan remarked that Strickland had a greater influence than Booker T, Strickland replied simply, “Not true,” without further elaboration or engaging in a heated back-and-forth.
Strickland Chooses Promotion Over Confrontation
Instead of escalating the verbal exchange, Strickland used the moment to promote his AEW X Reebok sneakers. Responding to a fan’s joke about Booker T’s frequent shoe changes during WWE appearances, Strickland wrote,
“If he needs a new pair he can borrow mine.”
This calm but pointed reply maintained a reserved tone while drawing attention to Strickland’s merchandise.
Booker T’s Perspective on Swerve’s Influence
On his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T addressed the impact Strickland reportedly has on younger wrestlers like Je’Von Evans. He acknowledged that Evans likely grew up watching performers similar to Strickland, but emphasized the need to overcome problematic “bad habits.” Booker T said,
“I heard Swerve Strickland talk about Je’Von Evans, and Evans probably grew up watching guys like him, and that’s true. So you’ve got to figure out how to get rid of those bad habits.”
History of Tension Between Strickland and Booker T
The friction between Strickland and Booker T has been ongoing for over a year. In a VladTV interview, Strickland exposed Booker T’s treatment during his WWE tenure and revealed how a racial slur was used in his presence under Vince McMahon’s leadership. This tension escalated when Strickland led a “F*** Booker T” chant following an AEW event called Dynasty.
Implications for Wrestling Industry Dynamics
This public exchange highlights the continuing complexities in professional wrestling regarding mentorship, influence, and legacy. Strickland’s calm, measured responses contrast with Booker T’s more direct criticism, reflecting differing approaches to addressing challenges within the sport’s culture. With Strickland promoting his brand amid the dispute, the conversation is likely to evolve as both figures remain influential within AEW and WWE circles.
(Trademarks "BAD HABITS") https://t.co/VCLylrwySj
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) February 17, 2026
Not true https://t.co/8UmPZSfrsY
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) February 17, 2026
If he needs a new pair he can borrow mine 🫡 https://t.co/kPIvgm4qe9 pic.twitter.com/tCpcswMnC2
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) February 17, 2026
