Jay Lethal Picked ROH Over AEW Three Years Ago

Jay Lethal made his surprise debut at AEW’s Full Gear PPV. Previously, he was working in Ring of Honor, where he was top star. When the company released its entire roster and announced a long hiatus, he was quick to make the move.

Three years ago, when AEW was just getting started, Lethal had the opportunity to join the company. Instead, he says he decided to stick ROH. His goal was to help the company after a lot of their top stars left to wrestle elsewhere. He spoke about his decision on the latest Talk is Jericho.

“That massive exodus of a good group, a solid group of people who were drawing the fans there. When this exodus, this massive leaving happened, my heart broke. This was also during a contract renegotiation time for me. An offer was made for me and they extended the invite to me to say, ‘hey, come with us.’

I didn’t take it, obviously, and here’s why. Throughout my entire Ring of Honor career, it really feels like they have laid out the red carpet, for not only me but my family. They’ve always gone above and beyond. I can’t think of a single bad thing to say about them. Other than they let us sit at home too long and paid us.

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When all these guys were leaving, and I don’t want to make it seem like I’m some savior. But when all those guys left, I literally thought about the state of the company. Not only that but the state that my friends would be left in because I’m friends with everybody there. I thought, well I can’t do it all by myself, but at least if I’m here I can try and help. I really feel like the company is going to suffer and they’ve been good to me so let me repay the favor. That’s the only reason that I stayed.”

Jay Lethal wrestled for Ring of Honor from 2003 until 2006, when he jumped ship to TNA. He returned to the promotion in 2011. Lethal is a two-time ROH World Champion.

What do you think of Jay Lethal deciding to stick it out with ROH? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Thanks to WrestlingInc. for the transcription!