Bobby Lashley. Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Bobby Lashley excited for his AEW run

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Nov 22, 2024 5:45 AM ET

Bobby Lashley made his AEW in-ring debut on Wednesday after recently joining the company following his release from WWE. Next, he will face Swerve Strickland on Saturday at "Full Gear."

Tony Khan's company has developed a reputation for producing exceptional pay-per-views. As such, Lashley will be under pressure to produce following his recent addition to the roster. However, as a multiple-time world champion for various promotions, Lashley will undoubtedly be confident in putting on a good match.

During a recent appearance on "The Lame Guys Podcast," Lashley revealed what drew him to AEW.

"I looked at it, and I was like, 'Man, we talked about Hurt Business and what we could have done with it, the Hurt Syndicate now," Lashley said. "...Ultimately, we are a group that is good for the company. We have the ability to be able to build talent ...You don't have to take out all of us because it's a lot to take out, but you can go in there and battle and box with us, it will raise your value and put you at a different level."

AEW has been short on main-event talent in recent years. The majority of its roster additions have proven to be more effective in the mid-card. Only Will Ospreay has risen to the top of the company since joining from New Japan Pro Wrestling.

However, Strickland, who has emerged as a true star, will undoubtedly benefit from his feud with Lashley and "The Hurt Syndicate." The trio brings a new set of eyes with them, giving Strickland a chance to impress a new segment of the fanbase. He's already proven capable of elevating a feud, as shown by his work against Hangman Adam Page.

Khan has an opportunity in front of him. Lashley, MVP and Shelton Benjamin can help raise the company's profile. They know how to make stars and have the talent to shoulder a heavy burden. AEW can't afford to fumble the trio.

AEW must have plans in place to maximize Lashley's presence. Otherwise, he will become another missed opportunity for AEW, and it has had too many of those recently.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

More must-reads: