Shelton Benjamin has addressed fan concerns following his AEW Continental Championship Eliminator match on the recent episode of Dynamite. The January 7, 2026, episode of AEW Dynamite in Tulsa, Oklahoma, saw Jon Moxley taking on Benjamin in the opening contest. Moxley emerged victorious after a battle that nearly went to the 20-minute time limit, securing a pinfall with just five seconds remaining on the clock.
Some fans raised concerns ahead of the match, believing that Benjamin looked emotional during his entrance, with some speculating that he had been crying. The Hurt Syndicate member has now addressed this concern on social media, noting that it was water he poured on himself dripping down his face, not tears.
Noting that he’s still the one who hurts people, Benjamin tweeted: “Thanks for the concern Fans you are greatly appreciated, but I don’t do emotional. I hurt Hurt people. However, before I enter an arena, I do pour water on my head that tends to drip.”
Having initially shown a degree of disdain towards his opponent by slapping away a handshake to start the match, Moxley would end up shaking hands with Benjamin after securing the victory. The match saw the two brawl into the crowd at the BOK Center. In addition to Jim Ross returning to the show in his home state, MVP was also on commentary for this match, with it previously being confirmed that MVP had signed a long-term contract extension with AEW.
Jon Moxley is the current AEW Continental Champion, having defeated Kazuchika Okada in the final of the Continental Classic at Worlds End on December 27, 2025. That victory ended Okada’s 647-day reign and marked Moxley’s first run with the title. Following his win over Benjamin, Moxley has now secured two straight eliminator match victories, having defeated Josh Alexander on the December 31 episode.
AEW is currently building toward the Maximum Carnage event scheduled for January 14, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona. The event is set to feature a World Championship clash between MJF and ROH World Champion Bandido, as well as the return of Kenny Omega.
Thanks for the concern Fans you are greatly appreciated but, i dont do emotional, I hurt Hurt people. however before i enter an arena i do pour water on my head that tends to drip. pic.twitter.com/EkstaxkN8M
— Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) January 8, 2026
