Controversy Arises Over MJF’s Promo Targeting Roderick Strong

As the saying goes, «Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.» This adage, however, does not resonate with many who have fallen victim to MJF‘s sharp tongue. His recent comments about fellow wrestler Roderick Strong have sparked controversy due to their personal nature. During the «Wolf of Wrestling» show, MJF delved into Strong’s childhood, unveiling traumatic experiences in a provocative manner.

Heading into their anticipated match, Strong faces the dual challenge of defeating MJF while maintaining his composure amidst these emotionally charged attacks. Wrestling veteran Bully Ray weighed in on the situation, pondering whether MJF’s harsh rhetoric serves to enhance interest in the match or oversteps professional boundaries. «When I saw the video, it really … I don’t know if the right word was ‘got under my skin,’ it hit me the wrong way,» Bully commented during an interview on «Busted Open Radio.» He noted his own history of controversial promos, remarking, «Find the button and press it. Don’t just press it; kick it in. Do whatever it takes to elicit the emotion of hate.»

The buildup to any wrestling match is crucial in determining its success with audiences. In this case, Bully Ray questioned what might have transpired had Roderick Strong responded immediately to MJF’s insults. Strong’s silence following the incendiary commentary, which included a reference to his mother shooting his father, left viewers without a real-time reaction, diminishing the segment’s impact.

«What I hated was the fact that I didn’t get to see Roderick Strong’s reaction in the moment,» Bully noted. «I know AEW is up against MJF not being around right now… But man, I’ll be damned if I’m not saving that, or if I’m not figuring out a way to make that happen live.»

This controversy unfolds as the two wrestlers prepare to face off at the Worlds End pay-per-view event. The narrative stems from previous confrontations, notably when Strong’s faction, the Undisputed Kingdom led by Adam Cole, disrupted MJF’s run as AEW World Champion. The upcoming match offers Strong the chance to settle scores after vanquishing Shane Taylor, The Beast Mortos, and Lance Archer in direct pre-event contests.