Chris Jericho Breaks Character to Praise Former WWE Star After AEW Dynasty

Chris Jericho’s Heartfelt Message to Swerve Strickland: The Rise of a New AEW World Champion

Chris Jericho, a name synonymous with professional wrestling, recently shared a heartfelt message for Swerve Strickland, one of AEW’s most promising talents, after his major win on “Dynasty.”¹

The moment was captured during a victory party for Swerve, who had just achieved a significant milestone in his career by dethroning Samoa Joe to become the new AEW World Champion.

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Swerve Strickland’s Journey to the AEW World Championship

Swerve Strickland’s journey to the AEW World Championship was far from easy. It was a story of determination, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
Over the past several months, Swerve had been steadily climbing the ranks in AEW, demonstrating his skills and charisma inside the ring.
His rise to the top culminated in his stunning victory over Samoa Joe, a formidable opponent known for his dominance and intensity.
Swerve’s victory was significant for several reasons. Not only did he defeat a wrestling icon in Samoa Joe, but he also solidified his status as a top-tier performer in AEW.
His win represented the culmination of years of hard work, and his ascent to the championship was a testament to his talent and dedication.

Chris Jericho’s Endorsement: A Mark of Excellence

Chris Jericho’s endorsement of Swerve Strickland is a significant moment in the career of any wrestler. As a veteran of the industry with a career spanning decades, Jericho’s opinion holds considerable weight. During the victory party for Swerve’s championship win, Jericho delivered a speech that resonated with fans and fellow wrestlers alike.

The Impact of Swerve Strickland’s Victory

Swerve Strickland’s victory over Samoa Joe to become the AEW World Champion had a profound impact on the promotion and its fans. As the new champion, Swerve carries the responsibility of representing AEW on the grandest stages. For AEW, Swerve’s rise to the top is a testament to the promotion’s commitment to elevating new talent.

It reflects the diversity and competitiveness within AEW, where emerging stars have the chance to make a name for themselves. Swerve’s journey from an up-and-coming wrestler to the AEW World Champion embodies the spirit of AEW and the opportunities it provides for talent to grow and succeed.

Also Read: Chris Jericho Victory at AEW PPV Sparks Fan Backlash: WWE Is Calling

Booker T’s Thoughts on Swerve Strickland Winning the AEW World Title

Wrestling legend Booker T recently shared his thoughts on Swerve Strickland’s historic win, which saw him become the new AEW World Champion. Booker T, a respected voice in professional wrestling and a two-time WWE Hall of Famer, reflected on the significance of Swerve’s victory in an interview with Alfred Konuwa of Pro Wrestling Bits.²

His comments shed light not only on Swerve’s skill and potential but also on the broader context of black world champions in professional wrestling.

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Celebrating Progress: A New Milestone for Black World Champions

In his interview, Booker T discussed the history of black world champions in wrestling and noted that Swerve’s achievement was a clear indication of progress in the industry.
Over the years, there has been a slow but steady increase in the number of black world champions, demonstrating a growing commitment to diversity and representation within professional wrestling.

Booker T, who himself has held multiple world championships and is widely recognized as one of the most successful black wrestlers in history, expressed his enthusiasm for Swerve Strickland’s victory.
He emphasized that Swerve’s win wasn’t just a token gesture but a recognition of his undeniable talent and hard work.
This sentiment resonates with the broader wrestling community, which has increasingly embraced diversity and inclusion.

Swerve Strickland: A Champion with the Skills to Back It Up

Booker T’s comments highlighted Swerve Strickland’s skill set and wrestling prowess. He noted that Swerve has the charisma, athleticism, and technical ability to be a successful world champion. These qualities are essential for any wrestler aiming to carry a major championship, and Booker T’s endorsement further underscores Swerve’s readiness for the role.

The Start of the Swerve Dynasty

As Swerve Strickland begins his reign as the AEW World Champion, the wrestling world is eager to see how he shapes the landscape of AEW. His first test comes this week on AEW Dynamite, where he will face Kyle Fletcher in a world title eliminator match.³

This bout will be an opportunity for Swerve to demonstrate why he deserves to be at the top and to set the tone for his championship reign.

Early Life of Chris Jericho: From Winnipeg to the World

Christopher Keith Irvine, better known by his ring name Chris Jericho, was born on November 9, 1970, in Manhasset, New York, U.S. Despite being born in the United States, Jericho holds dual citizenship in the United States and Canada, owing to his Canadian parents.

His father, Ted Irvine, was a professional hockey player who had a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL). His Scottish and Ukrainian heritage is attributed to his father’s and mother’s ancestry, respectively.

A Childhood Influenced by Sports

Given his father’s background in professional hockey, it’s no surprise that Chris Jericho grew up in a household that valued sports and athleticism.

Chris Jericho (@IamJericho) Signs Extension With #AEW Through 2025 – Increasing Roles And Responsibilities
Read full release – https://t.co/9wFb4l7g37 pic.twitter.com/57Ng4esh2M

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) October 18, 2022

Ted Irvine played for teams such as the New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings, giving young Jericho a firsthand look into the life of a professional athlete.
This environment likely played a significant role in shaping his discipline, work ethic, and determination, characteristics that would later define his wrestling career.
However, it was not hockey that captured Jericho’s imagination—it was professional wrestling. Growing up in Winnipeg, he was exposed to the vibrant wrestling culture in Canada, with iconic stars like Bret Hart and Owen Hart making significant waves in the wrestling world.
Jericho’s early exposure to wrestling led him to develop a deep passion for the sport, which would become the driving force behind his career ambitions.

Inspirations and Early Aspirations

As a young wrestling enthusiast, Jericho looked up to some of the biggest names in the business. The likes of Bret Hart, Owen Hart, Ricky Steamboat, and Shawn Michaels were his role models.

These wrestlers were known for their technical prowess, charismatic personas, and in-ring storytelling abilities. It was this combination of skills and showmanship that inspired Jericho to pursue a career in professional wrestling.

Also Read: Chris Jericho Future Amidst Kylie Rae Allegations

Chris Jericho’s Professional Wrestling Career

Chris Jericho’s journey into the professional wrestling world began at the age of 19 when he entered the renowned Hart Brothers School of Wrestling in Calgary, Alberta.

This training ground, known for producing some of the best wrestlers in the business, was where Jericho first met Lance Storm, another aspiring wrestler who would become one of his earliest allies in the ring. His training under the guidance of Ed Langley and local Calgary wrestler Brad Young equipped him with the foundational skills needed for his wrestling career.

From Training to the Independent Circuit

After completing his training, Chris Jericho was eager to start wrestling on the independent circuit. His debut came just two months later, on October 2, 1990, at the Moose Hall in Ponoka, Alberta.

Wrestling under the ring name “Cowboy” Chris Jericho, his first match was a ten-minute time limit draw against Lance Storm, the same individual he met on his first day at wrestling school. This marked the beginning of Jericho’s journey into the world of professional wrestling, and he quickly gained recognition for his skills and charisma.

The Birth of Sudden Impact

Following their initial encounter, Chris Jericho and Lance Storm formed a tag team, originally known as Sudden Impact. The team quickly became a notable presence on the independent wrestling circuit, thanks to their chemistry and shared ambitions.

Sudden Impact’s matches were characterized by high-energy performances and innovative moves, which helped the duo establish a following among wrestling fans.

Building Momentum in the Independent Scene

As part of Sudden Impact, Chris Jericho and Lance Storm traveled extensively, competing in numerous independent promotions across Canada and the United States. The exposure to different wrestling styles and competitors provided them with a diverse range of experiences, contributing to their development as performers.

Jericho’s early experiences on the independent circuit allowed him to build a strong foundation in the wrestling industry, setting the stage for his later success.

Chris Jericho Net Worth

Chris Jericho’s net worth is estimated at $18 million, derived from a diverse range of income sources related to his extensive career in professional wrestling and his other ventures in entertainment. Here’s a breakdown of how he has built this significant net worth:

Transition to Music and Fozzy

Beyond wrestling, Chris Jericho is also a musician, primarily known for his role as the lead vocalist of the band Fozzy. This rock band has released several albums, embarked on world tours, and built a loyal fan base.

Jericho’s involvement in music has provided him with another substantial income stream, contributing to his overall net worth. The success of Fozzy has allowed Jericho to expand his influence in the entertainment industry.

Author and Podcaster

Chris Jericho is a prolific author, having written multiple books that explore his experiences in wrestling, music, and beyond. His books have been well received, and their success has contributed to his net worth.

Additionally, Jericho hosts a popular podcast, “Talk is Jericho,” where he interviews notable personalities from various fields, including wrestling, music, comedy, and more. This podcast has garnered a significant following and generates revenue through advertising and sponsorships.

Acting and Television Appearances

Jericho’s career has also included acting roles and television appearances, further diversifying his income sources. He has appeared in various TV shows, films, and web series, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. These additional roles have not only increased his visibility but also provided additional financial opportunities.

Merchandise and Endorsements

As a prominent figure in professional wrestling, Chris Jericho has also benefited from merchandise sales and endorsements. His iconic catchphrases, imagery, and branding have been popular among wrestling fans, leading to strong merchandise sales. He has also partnered with brands for endorsements and promotional work, contributing to his financial success.

FAQ’S

1. What did Chris Jericho do to break character?

Ans: Chris Jericho, known for his in-ring persona and heel behavior, broke character to publicly praise a former WWE star after an AEW event. Breaking character typically means stepping away from his typical wrestling gimmick to express genuine admiration or respect for another wrestler.

2. Who was the former WWE star that Chris Jericho praised?

Ans: The identity of the former WWE star praised by Chris Jericho can vary depending on the AEW event and context. Often, Jericho acknowledges those he has worked with in WWE and AEW, highlighting their talent and contributions to the wrestling industry.

3. Why is it significant when a wrestler like Chris Jericho breaks character?

Ans: When Chris Jericho breaks character, it carries significant weight because he is known for maintaining a strong in-ring persona. His praise or acknowledgment of another wrestler often reflects genuine respect and can signal to fans the importance of the moment or the individual’s talent.

4. What event was the praise related to?

Ans: The praise from Chris Jericho likely followed an AEW event, such as a pay-per-view or televised show. AEW Dynasty could refer to a storyline, match, or stable involving former WWE talent, where Jericho’s praise would emphasize the quality of the event or performance.

5. How does Chris Jericho’s praise impact the wrestler he commended?

Ans: Praise from a veteran like Chris Jericho can elevate the profile of the wrestler he commended. It can lead to increased attention from fans and opportunities within AEW or other promotions. Jericho’s acknowledgment is often seen as a sign of approval, validating the wrestler’s skills and contributions to the industry.