Swerve Strickland, a prominent figure in AEW and a former world champion, is currently positioned as a fan favorite, but many believe a Swerve Strickland heel turn is crucial for the future of the company. As AEW continues to shape its roster and rivalries in 2024, turning Strickland back into a villain could address several pressing needs within the promotion.
AEW Faces a Shortage of Legitimate Villains
Since Jon Moxley claimed the AEW Continental Championship at Words End 2025 and shifted away from his villainous persona, AEW finds itself lacking credible heels. Moxley’s earlier run as the head of the Death Riders made arenas erupt with boos, but his current role no longer fills this void. Meanwhile, although MJF holds the AEW World Championship and technically represents the bad guys, his popularity with fans makes it hard for the audience to view him as a true antagonist.
This gap creates a unique opportunity. Swerve Strickland, also known by fans as “The New Flavor,” has the right mix of charisma and edge to step into the role Moxley left behind. Now more than ever, AEW requires a new top heel, and Strickland is well positioned as a worthy contender to energize the division and heighten ongoing storylines.
Strickland Thrives in the Villain Role
While Strickland has found recent success as a babyface and developed a strong partnership with “Hangman” Adam Page, there is a strong consensus among wrestling fans that he excels as a heel. During his previous tenure as champion, Strickland’s villainous persona left a lasting mark, with memorable moments such as his betrayal of former tag team partner Keith Lee and his reckless actions in rivalries, including a controversial invasion of Hangman’s home.
A return to the dark side would enable Strickland to showcase his most compelling character work. At 35, he has the experience and presence to command the locker room and drive engaging stories. This reinvention might even pave the way for a second reign as AEW World Champion, reigniting fan interest and generating new momentum for AEW programming.
Potential to Revitalize Rivalries With Hangman Adam Page
Although Strickland and Hangman Adam Page are partners at the moment, their history as rivals stands out as one of AEW’s most memorable feuds. The series of clashes between the two were widely praised, each match delivering high drama and action. Their dynamic added immense depth to AEW’s storytelling and consistently drew fan attention. Tony Khan, AEW’s owner, expressed great admiration for both athletes and the chemistry of their feud, saying,
“I have so much respect for Swerve Strickland and Hangman Page both…..When I think of Hangman, I’ll think of Swerve. And when I think of Swerve, I’ll think of Hangman forever now. That’s one of those great things to be in wrestling, to have that counterpoint to yourself,” said Khan. [H/T: Wrestling Inc.]
Previously, Hangman played the antagonist while Strickland stood in as the hero, but a role reversal would breathe new life into their rivalry. Allowing Strickland to embrace a villainous side could spark another exciting chapter, delivering fresh storylines and significant business for AEW. This approach also gives long-time fans a reason to re-engage and invest emotionally in the outcomes of future matches.
A Swerve Strickland heel turn aligns with AEW’s current needs and offers the chance to elevate both the performer and the company’s storytelling. With the roster in flux and fresh rivalries on the horizon, making Strickland a top villain promises memorable moments and compelling television in the months ahead.
