The Hurt Syndicate’s Complex Role in AEW: Nic Nemeth Breaks Down Wrestling’s Gray Area

One Big Thing

Former WWE star Nic Nemeth analyzes how The Hurt Syndicate’s arrival in AEW creates an intriguing dynamic where traditional heel/face roles become blurred, particularly in their feud with Swerve Strickland.

Why It Matters

This situation highlights AEW’s evolving approach to storytelling, where crowd reactions and character dynamics don’t always fit traditional wrestling narratives, potentially setting up more nuanced storylines.

By The Numbers

• Bobby Lashley returns to in-ring action after a 6-month hiatus
• AEW Full Gear takes place November 23
• The Hurt Syndicate debuted on November 6 Dynamite

Key Details

• Nemeth’s perspective: “At some point, you either have to pull the trigger, or you have to make someone decide, or you lead the crowd to decide for themselves.”

• Current dynamics:

• Fans cheer both The Hurt Syndicate and Swerve Strickland
• Storyline positions Hurt Syndicate as heels
• Swerve’s character maintains edge despite babyface positioning

Between The Lines

Tony Khan appears to be letting fan reaction organically shape the direction of this storyline, rather than forcing traditional heel/face dynamics.

What’s Next

Bobby Lashley vs. Swerve Strickland at Full Gear will likely provide clearer direction for both parties’ alignments moving forward.

The Bottom Line

The wrestling landscape continues to evolve beyond simple good guy/bad guy dynamics, with fan engagement playing a crucial role in character development.

What do you think about wrestling’s shift away from traditional face/heel dynamics? Share your thoughts in the comments below about whether this makes storylines more interesting or too complicated to follow.