AEW's improvements are drawing praise from Bully Ray

MJF's return to AEW has had an instant impact. The former AEW world champion has hit the ground running with several good promotional segments. However, his immediate feud with Rush appears to have captivated the fanbase. MJF and Rush came to blows during Wednesday's episode of Dynamite.

According to Bully Ray, who was speaking on a recent episode of "Busted Open After Dark," that segment was enough to sell him on next week's Dynamite and the upcoming "Forbidden Door" pay-per-view.

“You know what they did most importantly? They sold me. I want to buy Forbidden Door just based on what I saw from Max and Rush tonight. I’m going to go out on a limb here, it better be a strong limb. I’m more excited for Max versus Rush than I have been for any other Max match in AEW...If I’m wondering what they’re going to do next week that means I am going to be tuned in. Not because I have to be to talk about it on this show, but as a fan, I want to be because I was so impressed with what I got from Max and Rush tonight.”

Bully Ray has often been outspoken in his criticism of AEW. As with most critics, his biggest issue is the lack of storylines and character development. As such, his interest in the MJF and Rush storyline is important. It shows that AEW is starting to figure things out in terms of building interest within the fanbase and drawing attention to the promotion. 

MJF's presence in the story undoubtedly contributed to its early success. He's among the best all-around talents in the world. He knows how to work a crowd and how to sell a story. Still, the segment with Rush was excellently worked. There's a clear "what will happen next" narrative surrounding the television spot, and it can also make noise on social media. 

AEW has needed this type of praise from a former wrestler. "Busted Open Radio" is one of the most popular wrestling shows out there. Hearing the change in the narrative surrounding the company will work wonders in enticing casual fans to tune in next week and begin following along. Once you can get eyes on the show, you can hook viewers in with the other stories that are currently taking place.

After months of stagnation and declining viewership, AEW could be about to turn a corner. MJF will play a huge role. Now, the creative team must find a way to deliver on the storylines they're building. They've also learned not to rush the stories to a conclusion. Let them simmer. Let them build. If they can do that, it won't be long until AEW is again trending in the right direction.