Swerve Strickland, known as one of the most dynamic talents in AEW, is set to undergo surgery for a torn meniscus injury. The announcement comes after Strickland’s recent title match against Kazuchika Okada at Forbidden Door 2025 and the injury’s long-term impact on his in-ring performance became increasingly apparent.
Details of Strickland’s Injury and Upcoming Surgery
The injury to Strickland’s right knee dates back to 2019, but he continued wrestling despite the torn meniscus. Reports from Bodyslam.net reveal that Strickland, also known as The King of Swerve, will have surgery scheduled this Wednesday to address the issue. His injury worsened after a harsh post-match attack by Okada, which was likely scripted to facilitate Strickland’s removal from programming ahead of the procedure.
Following their intense match for the AEW Unified Championship, Okada relentlessly targeted Strickland’s injured knee. He trapped Swerve’s leg between steel steps and the ring post, then repeatedly struck it with a steel chair until Prince Nana intervened with a baseball bat to defend Strickland.
Unexpected Alliances and Faction Changes Unfold
As Prince Nana came out to protect Strickland, another surprise occurred: the return of Wardlow, former TNT Champion. Absent from AEW since March 2024, Wardlow’s comeback was unexpected and immediately impactful. Instead of aiding Nana and Strickland, Wardlow aligned himself with Kazuchika Okada and Don Callis, attacking Nana and even clearing away security personnel who tried to intervene.
Wardlow’s alliance was confirmed when he embraced both Okada and Callis, officially joining the Don Callis Family faction. This move adds a new dynamic to the ongoing rivalries within AEW, heightening tensions and further complicating Strickland’s path to recovery and future competition.
Implications for Strickland and AEW Storylines
Swerve Strickland’s upcoming torn meniscus surgery marks a significant moment in his career, as the injury has been a persistent struggle for years. The forced hiatus will give him time to recover fully but also pauses one of AEW’s most exciting story arcs. Meanwhile, the shifting alliances—especially Wardlow’s defection—set the stage for intensified conflicts that fans will follow closely in AEW programming.
“” —Prince Nana
“” —Don Callis
“” —Wardlow
