Chris Jericho: Swerve Strickland is AEW’s team captain

One big thing: Chris Jericho believes Swerve Strickland has “star written all over him”

AEW veteran Chris Jericho has high praise for current AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland, calling him the company’s “team captain” in a recent interview with Sports Illustrated.

Why it matters:

• Jericho’s endorsement carries significant weight given his status as AEW’s first world champion and one of wrestling’s most decorated performers.
• Strickland’s rapid ascent to the top of AEW showcases the company’s ability to create new stars and capitalize on talent overlooked by competitors.

By the numbers:

• Strickland won the AEW World Championship at AEW Dynasty in April 2023, defeating Samoa Joe.
• This is Strickland’s first reign as AEW World Champion.

What they’re saying:

• Jericho on Strickland’s potential: “This is only his first time as champ and look what he’s doing. Wait until the second time and the third time and the fourth time.”
• On Strickland’s WWE release in 2021: “I don’t know how you could ever let that guy go.
• Jericho praised Strickland’s connection with the crowd and his larger-than-life persona.

What’s next:

Swerve Strickland will defend the AEW World Title against Bryan Danielson on August 25 at AEW All In London.

The bottom line:

Chris Jericho’s endorsement of Swerve Strickland as a future multi-time world champion and current locker room leader indicates AEW’s confidence in Strickland as a long-term top star for the company.

Do you agree with Chris Jericho’s assessment of Swerve Strickland? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.