WWE icon Booker T and AEW competitor Swerve Strickland’s ongoing dispute recently escalated, with an additional WWE star being mentioned amid the exchange. Their disagreements have spanned a considerable period, highlighted by Strickland’s verbal outburst toward Booker T following AEW Dynasty’s broadcast last year, stirring widespread debate within wrestling circles.
Booker T recently shared his thoughts on The Hall of Fame Podcast regarding Strickland’s influence on emerging wrestlers, expressing concern about the example he sets. The commentary related to Strickland’s tendency to perform perilous spots, notably an incident where he was pierced by a needle during the Light Out Steel Cage match against ‘Hangman’ Adam Page at AEW’s All Out event in 2024.
Booker T Critiques Impact on Upcoming Talent and Dangerous Wrestling Stunts
During the podcast, Booker T also brought up RAW star Je’Von Evans in connection with Strickland’s remarks about the younger wrestler. He stated:
“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 [Strickland] got to figure out how to get rid of those bad habits.” – Booker T, The Hall of Fame Podcast
Swerve Strickland Responds to Booker T’s Comments with Humor and Respect
Swerve Strickland promptly replied to Booker T’s critique on social media, addressing the notion of “bad habits” with a humorous twist. On his X/Twitter account, he joked about trademarking the phrase Bad Habits, demonstrating a lighthearted approach to the ongoing back-and-forth.
“(Trademarks ‘BAD HABITS’)” – The Realest Swerve Strickland, Twitter, February 17, 2026
In response to a fan accusing Booker T of merely following WWE’s directives, Strickland playfully offered to lend his collaborative Reebok shoes to the fan, adding a touch of levity to the debate. Despite the tensions, he also acknowledged Booker T’s significant contributions to professional wrestling when addressing claims about influence within the industry.
Uncertain Future for the Feud and Its Effect on Wrestling Community
The clash between Swerve Strickland and Booker T remains unresolved, with the involvement of RAW’s Je’Von Evans adding complexity to the situation. As the exchange continues, fans and industry insiders watch closely to see if the feud will be settled or lead to further disputes. The conversation underscores broader concerns about wrestler safety, influence on younger talent, and respect within the wrestling business.
(Trademarks "BAD HABITS") https://t.co/VCLylrwySj
— 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
Not true https://t.co/8UmPZSfrsY
— The Realest Swerve Strickland (@swerveconfident) February 17, 2026
