The Coronation of Swerve & The Consequences of His Past

On April 21, Swerve Strickland defeated Samoa Joe to become the first Black World Champion in AEW’s history. This was a historic moment for the promotion, and a great payoff for Swerve after the 2023 he had. He is undoubtedly one of the most popular wrestlers in AEW today.

While Swerve became one of the most popular wrestlers on the roster, he was also a heel at one point. He screwed over plenty of people before becoming world champion in AEW. Unfortunately for him, it looks like his past actions are coming back to haunt him…

The Open Challenge

On the latest episode of Dynamite, Swerve made an open challenge to determine who would be the challenger for his world title at Double or Nothing. Christian Cage stepped up for the challenge. Strickland had a brief partnership with Cage that did not end well. Let’s not forget that Cage is now aligned with Nick Wayne, who is someone Swerve attacked savagely in his own gym during his feud with Darby Allin.

The past is coming back for revenge, and this is the beginning.

A Babyface Champion

Swerve Strickland is now a good guy. With Cage and Wayne wanting revenge, this is just the start of what’s coming for Swerve. It’s an interesting angle as a way to face his past actions. It’s also a way for him to get the ultimate redemption from those he screwed over in the past. There is one man that will eventually face him though… The catalyst of his babyface turn, Hangman Page.

Of all people Strickland screwed over, Hangman Page got it the worst. Swerve invaded his home, which was a pivotal moment that made things personal. For now, Hangman is “suspended” by the AEW EVPs. However, there will be a time that he will face Swerve again for revenge. Most AEW fans expect this clash to take place in All In at Wembley Stadium.

A world champion facing his past is a great vehicle for Swerve moving forward. In wrestling, the chase is always easier than what happens after getting to the top of the mountain. The future feuds AEW can do with wrestlers like Darby Allin, Hangman Page, and even Keith Lee, are interesting programs for the current AEW World Champion.

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About Post Author

Juan Carlos Reneo

Juan Carlos Reneo is one of the original writers at The Scrap, contributing since the site’s inception. Hailing from Spain, he is a passionate professional wrestling enthusiast who primarily writes opinionated articles focused on AEW. With a large and devoted following on X, Juan brings unique insights and a dedicated perspective to his coverage of the wrestling world.

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