In recent months, veteran WWE and AEW star MVP has become the center of backstage controversy within All Elite Wrestling, stirring tensions related to the creative handling of The Hurt Syndicate faction. According to a detailed report from Fightful Select, multiple AEW talents have expressed frustration with ongoing issues connected to how The Hurt Syndicate is being booked, with MVP’s growing influence repeatedly cited as a source of backstage heat and drama[1][3].

The Hurt Syndicate, a prominent faction in AEW, has been involved in high-profile storylines and matches, but backstage sources suggest the group’s creative direction—largely shaped by MVP—has caused dissatisfaction among other wrestlers and personnel. These sources reveal that MVP’s role is not only limited to on-screen performance but extends deeply into creative decisions for the faction, which has reportedly led to friction within locker rooms and among AEW’s creative team[3].

A WWE insider familiar with AEW’s backstage dynamics noted, “MVP’s influence on Hurt Syndicate has been growing steadily, but his approach hasn’t sat well with some of the locker room, especially those who feel sidelined creatively or creatively constrained. It’s led to some serious discussions behind closed doors”[3]. This tension reportedly has manifested in vocal disagreements and a palpable strain on backstage morale for those associated with or affected by Hurt Syndicate’s booking.

Despite AEW’s recent positive momentum—highlighted by strong backstage morale following the highly successful All In: Texas event in July—this internal friction underscores challenges still present within the promotion’s environment. Reports from Wrestling Observer Radio indicated that AEW announcements of “turning things around” and talent being “very, very happy” reflected an overall boost in company morale and enthusiasm post-All In, but the MVP-related drama stands out as an exception amid the optimism[2].

The timing of this backstage dispute could have significant implications as AEW prepares for its next major event, AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door on August 24 in London, which coincides with WWE’s NXT Heatwave event. Sources indicate that Tony Khan and AEW management are keenly aware of the need to maintain a united front and keep momentum heading into one of their biggest international shows, making backstage squabbles around MVP’s creative control particularly concerning[2].

In addition to behind-the-scenes headaches, this controversy affects AEW’s on-screen product. The Hurt Syndicate’s booking, reportedly shaped heavily by MVP, has drawn mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. Some wrestlers resenting the allocation of creative power have reportedly felt overlooked for opportunities or frustrated with storyline decisions they had little input on. According to an AEW roster member who spoke on condition of anonymity, “It’s hard seeing one guy have so much say in the creative side when other talents bring so much to the table and want a chance to shine. It creates an unhealthy environment and makes you question where this company is headed creatively.”[3]

The renewed scrutiny over MVP’s backstage role comes after previous controversies involving his conduct and influence in wrestling promotions. While MVP has long been respected as a talented performer and veteran presence, his increased sway in AEW creative circles appears to be tapping into longstanding tensions—especially regarding faction dynamics and leadership in storytelling.

As this story develops, AEW faces the challenge of balancing the input of veteran stars like MVP while maintaining harmony among its diverse locker room talent. Wrestling journalists speculate that resolving these creative disputes swiftly will be crucial if AEW hopes to sustain the positive trajectory showcased after All In: Texas and avoid internal distractions ahead of Forbidden Door and other marquee events.

Fightful Select’s reporting aligns with multiple insider accounts from podcasts and wrestling news sites, which highlight MVP as a polarizing figure due to his extensive involvement beyond wrestling matches. Sources close to Cody Rhodes and AEW’s creative team have acknowledged these complaints but stopped short of confirming any imminent changes to MVP’s role, emphasizing ongoing efforts to address talent concerns while preserving effective storylines[1][3].

In summary, MVP’s expanding creative influence over The Hurt Syndicate faction is currently a flashpoint for backstage drama in AEW, causing notable friction among talent and raising questions about the company’s creative direction. While AEW overall enjoys high morale post-All In and enters a critical phase with Forbidden Door looming, managing MVP-related controversies will be essential to maintain internal stability and stakeholder confidence moving forward.

For continuous updates on this developing backstage story and more WWE and AEW news, visit WWE.com and leading wrestling news outlets like Fightful, Wrestling Headlines, and Ringside News. Sources indicate that AEW’s leadership is closely monitoring the situation to prevent backstage tensions from spilling into the on-screen product in upcoming shows[1][3].