10 Ups & 10 Downs For AEW In 2019
3. Freedom Of Expression
AEW’s roster is comprised of a wild cast of colourful characters, much of which is down to the promotion’s willingness to let the performers get over on their own terms.
Darby Allin has built a fanbase not only because he’s such a kinetic wrestler, but because he’s allowed to be himself. The skateboard, the alt. look, the body bag spots: these come from Darby’s mind, not a writer’s, and it’s refreshing.
Private Party’s expressiveness inside the ring and out has proven their strongest attribute in AEW so far. His character might complain about the constant Lights Out unsanctioned matches, but allowing Jon Moxley to indulge in his most violent tendencies has helped establish him as AEW’s dangerous chaos element, with the stipulation now his signature. Cody, Chris Jericho, and MJF cut such compelling promos because they’re extremely charismatic and writing their own material.
There are countless other examples, but it’s great to see that AEW hasn’t gone back on their early promises re: not scripting promos and forcing wrestlers into roles they don’t suit. Sure, these acts haven’t all flourished through freedom of expression and some have required tweaks, but that so many owe their current status to it is a triumph.