25 Best Wrestling Moments Of 2025
13. Bobby Lashley’s Funniest Thumbs Down
The association between MJF and the Hurt Syndicate was dropped, ultimately, and at the worst time, too. Just when AEW reestablished trust in its long-term storytelling, ahead of and at the triumphant All In: Texas, an ex-WWE act decided not to do Business.
The effectiveness of the Syndicate was widely debated all year. They’re cool badasses, but are they so good at what they do that they can justify the most naked politicking witnessed on pro wrestling TV all year?
Possibly, possibly not - but the slow-burn teased alliance with MJF was good stuff in the late spring.
The contrast between the weaselly MJF and the suspicious, no-nonsense ‘Bob’ Lashley made for good TV. The idea was simple: is Bobby Lashley going to sanction MJF, or beat his brains in?
The tension and entertainment value was a now all-too-rare use of episodic storytelling in AEW. MJF used his wealth to buy his way in, and offered Lashley a beautiful sports car. Lashley was impressed. He got in. MJF asked for the elusive thumbs up - which, incidentally, was very, very over in the buildings. Lashley’s timing in these segments was excellent. Lashley gave MJF the thumbs down and sped off in one glorious motion in a scene sold to hilarious effect by MJF’s conniption fit.
The Hurt Syndicate eventually became an act of hard dudes who kick ass and only lose when they know they’re getting their win back, or when they aren’t involved in the finish. It’s a shame; they were far more effective when they pretended to play friendly with others.