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Part 9: Swerve Strickland on Becoming AEW's First Black World Champion
Part 1: Swerve Strickland on Mom Making Him Join the Military as a Minor, Being a Teen Dad in Army
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Swerve Strickland discussed his perspectives on racial representation within WWE, addressing issues of fairness and treatment of Black wrestlers. Strickland expressed admiration for the select group of Black world champions in WWE, including The Rock and Booker T. However, he highlighted the challenges Black wrestlers face in the ways that they're marketed. Booker T countered these claims, highlighting the accomplishments of current black talents like Bianca Belair and The New Day. Despite Booker T's positive experiences, Strickland highlighted a controversial incident where Vince McMahon used a racial slur in his presence, arguing it exemplifies systemic racial insensitivity. Strickland emphasized that his critique extends beyond personal grievances, reflecting widespread fan concerns about the visibility and representation of Black talent in WWE. He stressed that this discourse is driven by fans longing to see performers who represent their identity succeed on the grand stage.
