In a candid and insightful interview on The Stunner podcast, WWE Hall of Famer A.J. Styles, affectionately known by fans as “Big Boom! A.J.,” shared his personal picks for the current AEW Mount Rushmore. Styles, renowned for his decades-long wrestling career across WWE, TNA, and NJPW, offered a thoughtful perspective on who he believes presently defines the elite tier within All Elite Wrestling (AEW), the hottest wrestling promotion on the scene.

When asked to identify the four standout AEW talents who have shaped the current era, Styles did not hesitate. His Mount Rushmore of AEW talent features Swerve Strickland, Orange Cassidy, Bryan Danielson, and MJF—four wrestlers he sees as exemplifying excellence, charisma, and influence in AEW today. “Swerve is phenomenal in the ring, charismatic beyond belief, and represents a new generation stepping up,” Styles noted. “Orange Cassidy brings such a unique vibe, blending comedy with technical ability that fans can really connect with. Bryan Danielson is a proven workhorse and pure wrestler, while MJF’s mic skills and presence make him a must-watch every time.” This quartet, according to Styles, captures the diversity and talent AEW offers on any given night [source: The Stunner podcast].

The Significance of the AEW Mount Rushmore Concept

The idea of a “Mount Rushmore” in wrestling is to highlight four wrestlers whose contributions, style, and aura have left an indelible mark on a promotion—similar to how the U.S. Mount Rushmore immortalizes four presidents. While AEW is still relatively young compared to WWE or TNA, its explosive growth and star-studded roster have made such conversations relevant to fans and insiders alike.

Styles himself is no stranger to this concept. Earlier this year, he revealed his Mount Rushmore of TNA (now Impact Wrestling) during an interview on Insight With Chris Van Vliet, where he named legends like Christopher Daniels, Samoa Joe, Kurt Angle, and Frankie Kazarian as pivotal figures in that promotion’s golden age. This previous insight adds credibility to Styles’ perspective on AEW, showing his respect and appreciation for key players who elevate the sport [1].

Why These Four?

• Swerve Strickland: Styles highlighted Swerve’s dynamic in-ring prowess and crowd connection. The former WWE and AEW star has built a reputation as a versatile performer, able to shift seamlessly between serious competition and entertaining storylines, making him a central figure in AEW.

• Orange Cassidy: Known for his laid-back persona and unique wrestling style, Cassidy brings a fresh energy that balances AEW’s more intense matches. Styles remarked on Orange’s ability to engage fans through a blend of humor and technical wrestling, a combination that is rare in any promotion.

• Bryan Danielson: As a seasoned veteran and one of the best technical wrestlers in the world, Bryan Danielson’s role in AEW is significant. Styles praised Bryan’s consistency, work ethic, and the way he helps elevate younger talent while delivering match-of-the-night performances.

• MJF: No discussion of AEW’s top stars would be complete without Maxwell Jacob Friedman. Known for his razor-sharp promos and villainous character work, MJF brings a layer of storytelling and legitimacy to AEW’s main event scene. Styles respects MJF’s ability to captivate audiences, calling him an “essential piece” of AEW’s identity.

AEW’s Rising Influence on the Wrestling Industry

This candid acknowledgment by a WWE legend like A.J. Styles shines a light on AEW’s growing status as a formidable competitor in professional wrestling. AEW has become the home for many talents who seek creative freedom and renewed fame, and veterans like Styles recognize its cultural and sporting impact.

According to sources close to AEW, backstage morale remains high as the promotion continues to push innovative storylines and showcase wrestlers who blend athleticism with character depth. The recognition from a respected figure like Styles underscores AEW’s importance in today’s wrestling landscape [Fightful Wrestling reports].

Styles’ Broader Legacy and Perspective

While Styles expressed enthusiasm for AEW’s current landscape, he remains a champion of wrestling as a whole. His Mount Rushmore picks for TNA reflected his experiences and relationships there, demonstrating a careful balance in acknowledging contributions from different promotions. This nuanced view suggests that Styles values a wrestler’s overall impact, influence on peers, and connection with fans beyond just win-loss records.

Moreover, Styles’ commentary on AEW’s talent reflects a broader wrestling trend: the appreciation of diversity in wrestling styles, promos, and audience engagement strategies. His picks include a hard-hitting technical wrestler, a charismatic showman, a comedic performer, and a master manipulator on the mic—capturing the multifaceted nature of modern wrestling.

What This Means for WWE Fans

As a WWE insider source explained, Styles’ openness about AEW talent can be seen as an invitation for WWE fans to broaden their wrestling horizons. “AJ is known for his wrestling intelligence and respect for all performers regardless of the brand,” said the source. “His AEW Mount Rushmore choices validate the talent and storytelling going on outside WWE and encourage a more holistic view of wrestling today.” This serves as a reminder that the wrestling world’s talent pools and narratives have never been richer or more complex.

Final Thoughts

A.J. Styles’ current AEW Mount Rushmore list—Swerve Strickland, Orange Cassidy, Bryan Danielson, and MJF—reflects the diverse styles and charisma driving AEW’s success as a promotion. It also highlights Styles’ deep understanding of wrestling artistry and his respect for performers who excel in various dimensions of the craft.

As AEW continues to grow and WWE evolves its own direction, fans benefit from hearing perspectives like Styles’, which celebrate excellence regardless of the company. With Mount Rushmore discussions becoming more common, it’s clear that wrestling’s golden era is alive and well, fueled by passionate athletes and discerning voices like Big Boom! A.J.

For the latest in wrestling news, interviews, and expert breakdowns, stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, and your favorite wrestling podcasts.