Swerve Strickland recently addressed a heated debate triggered by former AEW Women’s World Champion Riho after veteran wrestling figure Gail Kim made contentious remarks. Kim’s comments about Riho’s size and in-ring performance have sparked discussions across social media, with Strickland providing a subtle yet pointed reaction amid the backlash. The Swerve Strickland AEW reaction highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the reception of Japanese talent in professional wrestling.
Gail Kim’s Criticism of Riho Sparks Controversy
Gail Kim, a well-respected veteran and former TNA producer, publicly shared her perspective regarding Riho’s wrestling style, specifically focusing on the challenges posed by Riho’s smaller stature. Kim expressed her difficulty in fully suspending disbelief while watching Riho compete in the ring due to this factor. These remarks quickly drew sharp criticism from fans and wrestling insiders who viewed the comments as unfair or dismissive of Riho’s skill set.
The controversy intensified as an older video clip resurfaced on the social platform X, featuring Kenny Omega discussing the extra hurdles Japanese wrestlers face, including unwarranted online abuse. Omega emphasized the unjust treatment Joshi wrestlers, like Riho, often endure despite their talents.
Reacting to Omega’s remarks, Swerve Strickland reposted the clip with a brief but impactful message, saying,
“Ahead of the curve,” he wrote. – Swerve Strickland
This exchange highlights the ongoing challenges that Japanese wrestlers confront in global promotions and the support they receive from peers like Omega and Strickland.
Jim Ross’s Past Support for Gail Kim and Recent Developments
Before the recent controversy, Gail Kim had a strong reputation within the wrestling community, especially after her release from TNA in March 2025. Numerous prominent wrestlers and personalities praised her contributions behind the scenes.
During an appearance on the podcast Grilling JR in March, longtime wrestling commentator Jim Ross advocated for AEW to bring Kim on board, citing her value and professionalism. He shared,
“I would endorse that (AEW hiring Gail Kim). If Tony Khan asked me my thoughts on the matter, I would suggest, ‘Go for it,’ because she’s very valuable and does a great job. I have great respect for Gail Kim, and her reputation speaks for itself. She gets results. She’s very good at working with talent. So no, I’m a big Gail Kim fan, and she should not be unemployed for long in my world,” he said. – Jim Ross
However, Kim’s recent statements about Riho may have complicated her standing within the industry, potentially impacting future opportunities.
Challenges Faced by Japanese Wrestlers in AEW and Beyond
The backlash against Kim’s comments on Riho remains part of a broader conversation about how AEW and wrestling promotions at large treat Japanese stars. Wrestlers like Kenny Omega have long acknowledged the unique barriers and online harassment Joshi wrestlers face in the United States. Riho’s career, marked by her groundbreaking achievement as AEW’s inaugural Women’s World Champion, showcases resilience amid these difficulties.
Swerve Strickland’s measured response to Omega’s clip suggests growing awareness and solidarity among wrestlers regarding these issues. It underscores a call for greater appreciation of the skill and presence Japanese talent bring to wrestling promotions worldwide.
Implications for AEW and Wrestling’s Future Landscape
The controversy revolving around Gail Kim’s remarks and the strong pushback from fans and peers could influence AEW’s approach to talent management and cultural sensitivity moving forward. With key figures such as Jim Ross endorsing Kim in the past and Strickland voicing support for Japanese wrestlers now, AEW finds itself navigating complex relationships between legacy figures and rising stars.
As discussions continue, the wrestling community will likely watch how AEW addresses concerns of respect and representation for international talent. The ongoing dialogue may lead to more inclusive policies, better support for overseas wrestlers, and thoughtful engagement from veterans and newer performers alike.
I am also into very believable Wrestling. Not everyone is especially nowadays. And it was very hard for me to believe a little girl that was being portrayed of that size was fighting the women they had in that division. (3/4) https://t.co/R3i2ARRyaC
— Gail Kim-Irvine (@gailkimITSME) September 23, 2025
Ahead of the curve https://t.co/hQ2ybeQ3lo
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) September 24, 2025
