During a recent broadcast, Bully Ray, a WWE Hall of Famer, openly criticized the current Don Callis Family AEW booking, focusing on how Kazuchika Okada, one of AEW’s high-profile stars, has been handled since joining the promotion. The debate over Okada’s creative direction has intensified as fans and wrestling veterans alike assess his impact following his celebrated New Japan Pro Wrestling run.
Okada’s Arrival in AEW and His Association with Don Callis
Kazuchika Okada, renowned for his time in New Japan Pro Wrestling as the charismatic “Rainmaker,” joined AEW in March 2024. With a blockbuster reputation and a record-setting 647-day reign as Continental Champion, Okada was expected to be a major attraction. Since his AEW debut, he has been aligned with Don Callis and the Don Callis Family, adding star power and international acclaim to the group’s profile.
Bully Ray’s Critique of Okada’s AEW Booking
On a recent episode of Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray offered pointed opinions on Okada’s position in AEW. The wrestling veteran expressed disappointment at what he perceives as shallow creative direction, arguing that Okada’s unique attributes have not been adequately leveraged. According to Bully Ray, the company’s reliance on surface-level antics fails to do justice to Okada’s legacy and abilities.
“The only thing that I find entertaining about Okada in AEW is the random dropping of the word bi**h,”
the veteran said.
“To me, it’s surface-level stuff, and that’s all that it is.”
– Bully Ray, veteran wrestler and radio host
Bully Ray also underscored that, despite Okada’s proven skillset and impressive resume—most notably as a former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion—the current booking does not showcase his depth as a performer or develop his character meaningfully.
Major Matches and the Continental Classic Tournament
Okada’s competitive highlights in AEW include his appearance in the finals of the AEW Continental Classic at the Worlds End 2025 event. In the lead-up, Okada secured second place in the Gold League and overcame Konosuke Takeshita in the semi-finals, while Jon Moxley earned his own finals spot after battling through the Blue League and defeating Kyle Fletcher in his semi-final match. The climactic final between Okada and Moxley was a brutal, high-stakes confrontation. Ultimately, Moxley, leader of the Death Riders, prevailed, cementing his own standing while the outcome reignited criticism regarding Okada’s AEW trajectory.
Implications and the Road Ahead for the Don Callis Family
The discussion surrounding Don Callis Family AEW booking has put additional attention on AEW’s utilization of top international talent. As Okada remains a central figure in the stable led by Don Callis, ongoing debate about his creative direction could influence both fan perception and future storylines. For now, wrestling enthusiasts and insiders, including figures such as Bully Ray, will be closely monitoring how AEW adapts its approach to maximize the potential of stars like Okada as the promotion continues to evolve its roster and narratives.
