The world of professional wrestling is as dynamic as it is competitive, with talent often finding themselves at the mercy of the ever-changing landscape. The rise of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has added a new layer to this complexity, offering an alternative platform for wrestlers to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams. However, not every wrestler who makes the transition from WWE to AEW experiences the same level of success. In fact, for some, the move can be a step backward in their careers.
The Importance of Choice and Competition
Before delving into specific cases, it’s important to acknowledge the significance of AEW’s emergence in the pro wrestling scene. The presence of a viable competitor like AEW has injected new energy and competition into the industry. Monopolies can stifle creativity and limit opportunities for talent. AEW’s presence ensures that wrestlers have choices and that WWE is kept on its toes, leading to a healthier and more dynamic wrestling landscape.
Malakai Black (formerly Aleister Black in WWE)
Malakai Black is a wrestler with a unique look and captivating persona. His time in WWE’s NXT brand saw him rise to prominence, capturing the NXT Championship and establishing himself as a fan-favorite. However, his transition to the main roster was met with challenges, as he found himself in storylines that lacked direction and failed to utilize his potential.
Black’s move to AEW initially seemed promising, with a supernatural gimmick that hinted at a significant push. However, the arrival of high-profile talents like CM Punk and Bryan Danielson has led to Black’s position on the card being marginalized. Despite forming the House of Black stable, he has been relegated to trios matches and has not been positioned as a top contender for the AEW World Championship, a stark contrast to his status in WWE.
Ruby Soho (formerly Ruby Riott in WWE)
Ruby Soho’s debut in AEW was met with excitement, as she made an immediate impact by winning the Casino Battle Royale at All Out. However, her momentum soon waned, and she has not been prominently featured in the main event scene. Instead, she has been involved in a prolonged feud between factions, which has not allowed her to showcase her full potential as a singles competitor.
In WWE, as part of the Riott Squad, Soho was poised for a potential championship run, especially with her former tag team partner Liv Morgan’s ascent to the top of the SmackDown Women’s division. Her move to AEW has not resulted in the same level of success, and she has yet to establish herself as a top contender for the AEW Women’s World Championship.
Jake Hager (formerly Jack Swagger in WWE)
Jake Hager’s WWE career saw him capture the World Heavyweight Championship and compete against top talents like Chris Jericho, Edge, and Randy Orton. While his success in WWE peaked in 2010, he remained a consistent presence on television until his departure in 2017.
In AEW, Hager’s transition has not been as impactful. Despite his background in MMA and the potential for a fearsome gimmick, he has been overshadowed by other talents and has not been involved in significant singles feuds. He has largely served as a peripheral figure, which is a far cry from his status as a World Heavyweight Champion in WWE.
Kaira’s Insight:
The wrestling industry is constantly evolving, and the success of a wrestler in one promotion does not guarantee the same level of success in another. Factors such as booking, storylines, and opportunities play a significant role in a wrestler’s career trajectory. While AEW has undoubtedly provided a platform for many wrestlers to shine, not every talent has experienced the same level of success. For some, the move from WWE to AEW has resulted in a step backward in their careers. However, the wrestling industry is unpredictable, and opportunities can arise at any moment. As wrestlers continue to navigate their careers, the importance of choice and competition will remain crucial in shaping the future of pro wrestling.
