Veteran wrestler MVP shared insights with the Chicago Sun-Times about his shift from active wrestling to a managerial and speaking role within AEW. Emphasizing the importance of adapting his skill set, MVP explained how focusing on communication and character has extended his career beyond physical competition.
“I slipped into just a vocal role because I wasn’t wrestling anymore. But I cherish it because this has given me a new chapter in my career. My ability to talk, to cut a promo, to be an effective communicator, has given me this longevity. I tell young talent that it’s not just about wrestling. You have to have character, charisma and speaking ability if you want to have longevity because your body’s going to break down eventually. You have a limited window for your physical performance as a wrestler. I took time to study other aspects of the business and to polish my ability to speak, and that’s given me a career that’s over 20 years now.”
—MVP, AEW Star and Veteran Wrestler
Encouraging Bobby Lashley to Leave WWE
MVP recounted a pivotal moment when he advised Bobby Lashley not to renew his contract with WWE. The conversation took place informally, as MVP saw opportunity beyond WWE’s environment, urging Lashley to join AEW and continue their shared wrestling narrative.
“I was sitting next to Bobby in catering and said, ‘We got to get out of here.’ ‘Don’t re-sign. Let’s get Shelton and go across the street [to AEW]. Our story is not finished.’”
—MVP
Tony Khan’s Support for Hurt Syndicate’s Creative Control
MVP praised AEW’s owner, Tony Khan, for allowing Hurt Syndicate to complete their storyline in their own manner. MVP highlighted the respect shown towards the group’s veteran perspective and their commitment to building new stars while managing their tenure in AEW responsibly.
“Tony has given us that gift of allowing us to finish telling The Hurt Syndicate Story our way. We made clear to Tony that we are OGs and we understand it’s time to make new stars, and that’s our goal. We’re not here for a long time and we know how to do business, make money and how to make stars.”
—MVP
MVP Reflects on Fan Tribalism Within Wrestling
Addressing the ongoing division among wrestling fans, MVP expressed his frustration with tribalism. He emphasized that wrestlers themselves support one another behind the scenes, focusing on mutual success rather than rivalry.
“It’s stupid. The wrestlers, we’re rooting for each other. We want each other to be successful.”
—MVP
Significance of Storytelling Autonomy in AEW
The ability for Hurt Syndicate to shape their narrative independently under Tony Khan’s leadership highlights AEW’s flexible and artist-friendly approach. This autonomy not only respects the experience of long-time performers but also encourages organic growth in new talent, signaling a shift in wrestling promotion dynamics. As Hurt Syndicate moves forward, their journey reflects a blending of legacy and innovation within AEW’s competitive landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Tony Khan a billionaire?
A. According to Forbes, Shahid Khan, who is Tony Khan’s father, has more than $12 billion. Tony Khan’s net worth isn’t public, but reports estimate it at about $1.5 billion due to his ownership of AEW.
