Swerve Strickland Shows Up for Chris Bey Despite Not Being Medically Cleared

AEW star Swerve Strickland may not have laced up his boots for Sunday’s FSW Benefit for Chris Bey, but he made it clear he wasn’t missing the event—no matter what.

Originally set to face Kenny King at the March 23 event in Las Vegas, Strickland had to pull out due to not being medically cleared. But instead of staying home, the former AEW World Champion showed up live, stepped into the ring, and delivered a powerful speech that had the entire crowd in their feelings.

Strickland was met with loud chants of “Whose house?”—to which he quickly fired back, “Bey’s House.” The crowd followed suit, and it turned into a moment that proved the wrestling world always looks after its own.

Speaking directly to Bey, who’s recovering from a serious neck injury sustained at a TNA iMPACT taping in October, Swerve said, “I listen to his interviews. I listen to him talking about the moment and his accident. Just hearing the fact that he’s still so upbeat, still so full of spirit, so full of passion for wrestling that took something away from him and he still wants to do something for it. He still wants to keep giving.”

Strickland closed his heartfelt appearance with a message that hit deep: “I look forward to you eventually getting up and getting back in the ring and doing what you love. You’re showing the world what your true passion is because you’re getting stronger by the second. By the second. And trust me, when you’re ready, I will be here for you.”

The FSW ‘Beynefit for Bey’ event brought together names from WWE, AEW, and TNA, including appearances from Karrion Kross, Brian Cage, Trey Miguel, and more—all in support of Bey’s recovery journey. The show not only raised funds but reinforced what fans already know: real ones show up, whether they’re booked to wrestle or not.

Would you like to see Swerve vs. Chris Bey when he’s cleared to return? How do you feel about promotions coming together like this? Sound off in the comments and let us know what you think.