Swerve Strickland isn’t holding back—and he’s got receipts. After locking in a massive new contract with AEW at All In 2024, some within the wrestling world raised eyebrows. According to a report from the Wrestling Observer, AEW’s offer to Swerve was “so far over what WWE perceived as market value.”

That comment didn’t sit well with Swerve. Speaking on The Breakfast Club, he clapped back hard, saying, “They only complain when a Black person gets paid, I will say that. We shake the foundation of things like that. ‘Oh snap, wait. That’s not what we would pay.’ Then why are you calling me? Why are you asking me? If I’m not your concern then don’t worry about it.”

Swerve made it crystal clear—he’s not here for the double standards or the excuses.

Later in an interview with VladTV, he added, “I don’t think their value is fair. I don’t think they market anybody’s value as fair, really.”

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He’s not wrong—fans have noticed too. Swerve took the opportunity to point out how the audience has been vocal for years about how Black talent have been treated in WWE.

“I’m saying what your audience is saying. It’s what your audience has been complaining about for the better part of two, three years… not seeing Black talent even getting singles matches on PLEs.”

Swerve’s not bitter—he’s just calling it like it is. “I moved on, and I got my money, and I created my own values.”

Whether WWE likes it or not, Swerve’s message is clear: the game has changed, and so has the price tag.

Please credit Ringside News when using the above quotes for your publication or social media posts.

Do you think Swerve is right to speak out on wrestling’s pay structure? Or do you think WWE’s value system makes sense? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.

Felix Upton has over 15 years of experience in media and wrestling journalism. His work at Ringside News blends speed, accuracy, and industry insight.

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