One of AEW’s top stars, MJF, recently offered his perspective on WWE scheduling events at the same time as AEW programming. Speaking to Scott Fishman of TV Insider, MJF was direct when asked about the practice of counter-programming, which many wrestling fans see as an aggressive tactic in the ongoing competition between the two companies.
MJF On WWE’s Counter-Programming Strategy
MJF gave a surprisingly pragmatic view on the matter, crediting WWE leadership for making a logical business decision. He specifically mentioned “jolly old St. Nick,” a reference to WWE President Nick Khan, and “Trips,” the widely known moniker for WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Triple H.
“You mean shows that are running at the exact same time as us, even though they claim we’re not competition? How do I feel about it? I think it’s a smart business practice. I give jolly old St. Nick and Trips a whole lot of credit. At the end of the day, if you can stomp out your competition, you’re doing what is necessary. Don’t judge them for it, but also, don’t be stupid. They’re not doing this by happenstance. This isn’t circumstantial. None of it is.”
The comments come as both AEW and WWE head into a competitive weekend. This Saturday, July 12th, AEW presents its All In: Texas pay-per-view from Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, with an afternoon start time. In a direct overlap, WWE will air NXT Great American Bash at the exact same time, followed by a primetime network special, Saturday Night’s Main Event, on NBC later that evening.
MJF is currently embroiled in a storyline involving The Hurt Syndicate. After losing to “Hangman” Adam Page at the Revolution pay-per-view in March, he has become associated with the group. At AEW’s Dynasty event in April, he was seen assisting The Hurt Syndicate in retaining their AEW World Tag Team Championship. More recently, he made his in-ring return at AEW Grand Slam: Mexico in a victory over CMLL star Místico.
