In an unprecedented revelation, AEW International Champion Jon Moxley opened up about his pivotal last conversation with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, revealing some startling admissions made by the wrestling mogul. The discussion occurred just as Moxley was making his seismic transition from WWE, where he held a championship title, to AEW—a switch that sent ripples through the wrestling community.
“Vince McMahon was candid enough to admit, ‘We took you for granted,'” Moxley recounted in a detailed conversation with the “Bleav in Pro Wrestling Podcast.” This candid remark shed light on a wider issue within the world of professional wrestling: how easily a steadfast and reliable performer can find themselves undervalued or overlooked. It’s a challenging paradox; the very attributes that make a wrestler dependable are often the same ones that could make them susceptible to being taken for granted.
“Being reliable can be a double-edged sword,” Moxley noted, emphasizing the need for adaptability in the wrestling industry. Case in point, Moxley’s last-minute participation in a pay-per-view (PPV) main event against Orange Cassidy at AEW’s All Out event. This sudden change in plans was prompted by the abrupt termination of AEW “Real” World Champion CM Punk after a heated backstage conflict with Jack Perry. Originally, Punk was slated to defend his title against Ricky Starks, but life—and wrestling—had other plans.
Moxley was thrust into the limelight, a position he found himself in not by accident but due to his unwavering reputation for dependability. “Every significant moment in my career has appeared out of nowhere,” he divulged. “You have to seize the moment and strike when the iron is hot.”
Moxley’s agility and readiness were not only beneficial to him but also to AEW’s CEO Tony Khan. In another segment of his chat with Rick Ucchino of “The Bleav in Pro Wrestling Podcast,” Moxley discussed his intrinsic value to AEW. “We take immense pride in our work ethic and the standards we uphold. I consider it an honor to be the go-to guy in crisis situations for Tony,” he stated.
Highlighting the dichotomy of being consistently reliable yet undervalued, Moxley reiterated McMahon’s earlier admission. “It’s so easy for someone in my position to be taken for granted, but that’s the risk you take, and often it’s worth the reward.”
During the All Out event, Moxley was full of commendations for his opponent Orange Cassidy. Despite losing, Cassidy was lauded for delivering an exceptional performance in his first-ever PPV main event. “He surpassed expectations,” Moxley stated. “Things rarely go according to plan in wrestling. You have to be prepared to grab opportunities as they arise.”
Moxley’s advice to fellow wrestlers was metaphorical yet practical: “When the wave comes, you’ve got to be ready to surf.” He confessed that the surprises and abrupt changes are par for the course in wrestling, and he’s made a career out of being ready to adapt at a moment’s notice. It’s a lesson in both resilience and preparation, a guidepost for anyone looking to excel in the unpredictable world of professional wrestling.
Jon Moxley’s insights offer a profound look into the complexities and uncertainties that define the life of a professional wrestler. From candid admissions by industry leaders to the unforeseen opportunities that have shaped his career, Moxley’s story serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspirational roadmap for the wrestling community.
