AEW World Tag Team Champion Bobby Lashley recently shared revealing insights on one of pro wrestling’s most debated topics: the value of “cool moves” versus the power of storytelling inside the ring. Known as “The All Mighty,” Lashley emphasized that while flashy maneuvers can excite fans, the heart of wrestling lies in the story being told through physicality and emotion.
In a candid interview on the F Y’all podcast, Lashley delved into his wrestling philosophy, explaining why storytelling must come first. “I would rather explain why I like to hurt people through an action story, rather than just show you how I like to hurt people,” Lashley stated, underscoring that a match’s impact comes from the narrative woven between opponents rather than individual moves[4][5]. Lashley’s perspective draws on his extensive career — a journey spanning WWE, TNA, MMA, and now AEW — where he has witnessed how storylines resonate more profoundly with audiences than mere spectacle.
Since his explosive debut in AEW in late 2024, Lashley’s presence has dramatically shifted the wrestling landscape. Reuniting with MVP and Shelton Benjamin to revive the legendary Hurt Business faction—now known as The Hurt Syndicate—Lashley quickly established himself as a dominant force. His AEW arrival was marked by an impactful assault on Swerve Strickland, signaling that his brand of “business” is about intensity and storytelling through in-ring action rather than just flashiness[1][3]. Sources close to AEW confirmed that the Hurt Syndicate’s return was strategically designed to bring gritty realism and layered character dynamics back to the forefront of AEW storytelling, with Lashley spearheading this vision.
Lashley’s approach also reflects the challenges he faces wrestling opponents of varying sizes. On the same podcast, he explained how adjusting his style to wrestle smaller competitors involves focusing on storytelling and ring psychology rather than relying solely on power moves[5]. This adaptability demonstrates his commitment to narrative-driven wrestling that captivates fans across any opponent’s style or size.
Behind the scenes, a WWE insider familiar with Lashley’s transition to AEW revealed that his emphasis on storytelling aligns with evolving wrestling trends favoring character depth over temporary visual excitement. “Bobby knows that wrestling is theatrical — it’s about connecting emotionally, making the audience invest in every strike, every hold,” the insider explained. “Moves are cool, but it’s the story they tell that leaves a lasting impact”[4].
This philosophy contrasts with some modern wrestling trends that prioritize high-risk, visually complex moves designed to dazzle crowds. Lashley’s veteran view advocates a balance, placing storytelling first and using moves as tools to amplify that narrative. His emphasis has also influenced AEW’s direction, inspiring other wrestlers to elevate storylines alongside their athletic displays.
As Bobby Lashley continues his AEW run, embodying the role of a dominant champion with a fierce storytelling edge, fans and industry experts alike anticipate his influence will help shape AEW’s in-ring product toward a more narrative-centric style. Given his impact since debuting alongside MVP and Shelton Benjamin as the Hurt Syndicate, Lashley’s commitment to action storytelling is already proving to be a game changer in AEW’s competitive landscape[1][4].
In conclusion, Bobby Lashley’s perspective offers a veteran’s blueprint for wrestling success in 2025—where the art of storytelling reigns supreme, and cool moves serve the greater purpose of engaging fans emotionally throughout every match.
Sources: Interview on F Y’all Podcast; AEW Dynamite events (Wrestling Inc., Bleeding Cool); Insider reports (Fightful, WWE.com).