The wrestling world continues to buzz about AEW’s missing piece – house shows. Former WWE veteran MVP has joined a growing chorus of voices calling for All Elite Wrestling to bring back live events, arguing they’re essential for talent development and creative freedom.
The Case for Bringing Back AEW House Shows
During a recent episode of his “Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze” podcast, the veteran wrestler made a compelling argument for why Tony Khan’s promotion needs to reconsider its live event strategy. AEW hasn’t hosted house shows since 2023, leaving a significant gap in wrestler development opportunities.
MVP’s perspective carries weight given his extensive experience across multiple promotions. He understands the unique value that non-televised events bring to the wrestling ecosystem.
Development Opportunities for Rising Stars
The former WWE United States Champion emphasized how house shows serve as crucial training grounds for emerging talent. These events provide something that television tapings simply cannot offer – extended practice time without the pressure of broadcast perfection.
“AEW doesn’t do live events, but I wish that they did because that’s an opportunity for the less experienced talent to get reps. There’s nothing like polishing your craft in front of a live audience, and you get to try things.”
This sentiment reflects a fundamental truth in professional wrestling – television time is precious and unforgiving. Wrestlers need spaces to experiment and refine their skills without the stakes of live broadcast.
The Mentor’s Wisdom
MVP shared valuable advice he received early in his career that highlights the difference between good and great performances. The wisdom from his mentor reveals the strategic approach top wrestlers take toward their craft.
“Don’t do the things on TV that you do good. Go and do the things that you do great.”
This philosophy underscores why house shows matter so much. They provide the laboratory where “good” moves become “great” signature spots that eventually make it to television.
Creative Freedom Without Time Constraints
One of MVP’s most compelling arguments centers on the flexibility that house shows provide. Unlike television programming with strict time limits and commercial breaks, live events allow for organic storytelling and match pacing.
The veteran explained how producers at house shows typically give wrestlers broader time windows – usually 12-15 minutes – with flexibility to go over or under as the match demands. This freedom is rare in today’s tightly scripted wrestling landscape.
The Lighter Side of Wrestling
Beyond skill development, MVP highlighted another crucial element that house shows provide – the opportunity for wrestlers to showcase their personalities in ways television rarely allows.
“But you also get to play around. You do things at live events that you’d never do on TV. You know, jokes, how you might clown around.”
This aspect of house shows helps wrestlers connect with audiences on a more personal level. These interactions often lead to organic character development and fan relationships that enhance television storylines.
The Other Side of the Coin
While MVP advocates for house shows, not everyone in AEW shares his perspective. Commentator Taz has previously expressed support for the company’s lighter schedule, citing wrestler health and wellness as primary concerns.
Taz’s viewpoint focuses on how reduced travel and performance schedules help wrestlers avoid the physical toll that often leads to dependency on pain medication. This perspective represents the modern wrestling industry’s increased focus on talent well-being.
Growing Voices for Change
MVP isn’t alone in his call for AEW house shows. Veteran commentator Tony Schiavone has also publicly advocated for their return, suggesting there’s internal support for reviving the live event circuit.
This growing chorus of experienced wrestling voices creates an interesting dynamic. Their collective experience spans decades and multiple promotions, lending credibility to their arguments about house shows’ importance.
The Future of AEW’s Live Event Strategy
As AEW continues to evolve as a promotion, the debate over house shows represents larger questions about wrestler development, fan engagement, and business strategy. The company must balance talent wellness with traditional wrestling industry practices that have historically produced top-tier performers.
With respected veterans like MVP and Tony Schiavone advocating for house shows, will Tony Khan reconsider AEW’s current approach? The wrestling community will be watching to see if these voices influence the company’s future live event strategy and how it might impact the next generation of AEW stars.
