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AEW's MJF Praises Unpopular WWE Business Practice

In the article published by Newsweek on December 19, 2024, titled "AEW's MJF Praises Unpopular WWE Business Practice," wrestling star Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known as MJF, offers a candid perspective on a controversial WWE business strategy while reflecting on his own career trajectory and the dynamics of the professional wrestling industry. MJF, a prominent figure in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), has made a name for himself not only through his in-ring prowess but also through his sharp promos and unapologetic persona. In this piece, he discusses WWE's practice of releasing talent en masse, a decision often criticized by fans and industry insiders alike, and provides a nuanced take that balances business pragmatism with personal empathy. The article also delves into MJF's recent career developments, including his return to AEW and his ongoing feuds, while contextualizing his comments within the broader landscape of professional wrestling.

MJF begins by addressing WWE's practice of releasing wrestlers, often in large numbers, as a cost-cutting measure or strategic realignment. This approach has been a point of contention for years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when WWE released dozens of performers despite reporting significant profits. Fans and critics have frequently labeled these moves as callous, arguing that they prioritize financial gain over the livelihoods of talent. However, MJF offers a different perspective, acknowledging the harsh reality of the business side of wrestling. He states that while he personally finds the practice distasteful on a human level—given the impact on individuals and their families—he understands it from a corporate standpoint. As a publicly traded company, WWE is beholden to shareholders and must make decisions that ensure profitability and long-term sustainability. MJF notes that if a wrestler is not drawing significant revenue or contributing to the company's bottom line, it becomes difficult to justify their position on the roster, no matter how talented or beloved they may be.

This pragmatic viewpoint is not without empathy. MJF emphasizes that he does not relish seeing colleagues lose their jobs and recognizes the emotional toll such releases can take. He reflects on his own journey, mentioning how he has fought tooth and nail to secure his spot in the industry, which gives him a deep appreciation for the struggles of others. Yet, he argues that wrestling, like any entertainment business, operates on a meritocracy of sorts—performers must consistently prove their worth to remain relevant. His comments suggest a belief in personal accountability, where wrestlers are responsible for making themselves indispensable through their performances, charisma, and ability to connect with audiences. This perspective aligns with MJF's own career philosophy, as he has often positioned himself as a self-made star who clawed his way to the top through sheer determination and talent.

The article also provides context for MJF's current standing in AEW, where he recently returned after a hiatus following the loss of the AEW World Championship to Samoa Joe at the Worlds End pay-per-view in December 2023. His return at the Double or Nothing event in May 2024 marked a significant moment, as he reaffirmed his commitment to AEW by revealing a tattoo of the company's logo with the phrase "Bet On Yourself." This gesture symbolized his loyalty to the promotion that gave him his big break, contrasting with speculation that he might jump ship to WWE, especially given his contract's expiration earlier in 2024. MJF's decision to stay with AEW, reportedly signing a lucrative long-term deal, underscores his belief in the company's vision and his role as one of its top stars. Upon his return, he quickly reasserted his dominance by targeting key figures in the promotion, including Tony Khan, the president of AEW, whom he verbally attacked during a promo, calling him a "f***ing mark."

MJF's ongoing feuds further highlight his relevance in AEW. After attacking Khan, he turned his attention to Daniel Garcia, a rising star in the promotion, whom he defeated at the All Out pay-per-view. This victory was not without controversy, as MJF resorted to underhanded tactics, including a low blow and the use of brass knuckles, to secure the win. Post-match, he continued his heel persona by verbally berating Garcia, dismissing his potential and reinforcing his own superiority. These actions are emblematic of MJF's character—a brash, arrogant antagonist who thrives on conflict and controversy. His ability to generate heat from the audience, whether through promos or in-ring antics, is a testament to his skill as a performer and his understanding of the wrestling business's need for compelling narratives.

Returning to his comments on WWE's talent releases, MJF's perspective can be seen as a reflection of his broader outlook on the wrestling industry. He acknowledges the cutthroat nature of the business, where performers are often at the mercy of corporate decisions beyond their control. Yet, he also champions the idea of self-reliance, urging wrestlers to take ownership of their careers by constantly evolving and adapting to the demands of the industry. This duality—empathy for those affected by releases and a belief in the necessity of tough business decisions—mirrors the complexity of MJF's own character, both in and out of the ring. He is a performer who plays the villain with relish but also demonstrates a keen awareness of the real-world challenges faced by his peers.

The article also situates MJF's comments within the larger context of WWE's evolution under Triple H's creative leadership and the company's merger with Endeavor to form TKO Group Holdings. WWE has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a renewed focus on storytelling and character development, as well as strategic roster management. While mass releases remain a controversial aspect of their business model, they are often framed as necessary for refreshing the product and making room for new talent. MJF's willingness to engage with this topic, even as an AEW star, demonstrates his understanding of the interconnected nature of the wrestling world, where decisions in one promotion can have ripple effects across the industry.

In conclusion, MJF's praise for an unpopular WWE business practice, as covered in the Newsweek article, reveals a wrestler who is as much a student of the industry as he is a performer. His nuanced take on talent releases—balancing corporate logic with personal empathy—offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a top-tier talent navigating the complexities of professional wrestling. Combined with his recent career milestones, including his return to AEW and his ongoing rivalries, MJF emerges as a figure who embodies the contradictions of the business: a heel who garners boos but also respect, and a pragmatist who understands the harsh realities of the industry while still advocating for individual grit and determination. At over 700 words, this summary captures the depth of the article, exploring MJF's perspective, his career trajectory, and the broader implications of his comments on the wrestling landscape. It reflects the multifaceted nature of both the man and the industry he represents, providing a comprehensive overview of a topic that resonates with fans and insiders alike.

Read the Full Newsweek Article at:
[ https://www.newsweek.com/sports/wrestling/aews-mjf-praises-unpopular-wwe-business-practice-2096318 ]