Mick Foley thinks WWE has a major problem - it's no longer the preferred destination for talent in the industry. He believes AEW has trumped WWE in this aspect by attracting great talent, proven talent, building other talent, and creating storylines.
Names like CM Punk, Adam Cole, Bryan Danielson, Ruby Soho, Malakai Black, Paul Wight, and Christian Cage recently jumped ship to AEW, and more are expected to follow. Cole's, Danielson's, and Punk's debuts shook the crowd, and many believe AEW has found its own as a promotion.
In a video on Facebook, Foley highlighted that a part of the problem is caused by WWE themselves by misusing the NXT call-ups on the main roster citing the example of Karrion Kross. He further added that while WWE did a great job with him back in the day, he wouldn't be able to trust his career with the current WWE creative. Foley said:
"But part of it is a problem of your own making. I think the younger talent sees the way that the developmental characters are cut or left by the wayside or in the case of Karrion Kross, greatly watered down or even made a joke of when they debut on the main roster. It’s not broke, don’t fix it. If I was an aspiring talent now, big-league talent, with a major decision to make, I’m not sure that I would trust WWE creative to do the right thing with my career. You guys did wonders with me back in the day but that was a different time, different place but if it was today, I'm not sure I would trust the powers that be with my career in their hands, and until that changes, WWE – you've got a problem.”
You can watch Mick Foley's video below:
Why Mick Foley thinks AEW is worthy of praise
Following the All Out pay-per-view, Mick Foley took to Twitter to praise AEW for assembling a great roster and having compelling storylines, suggesting that the competition will bring out the best in everyone.
"Have to give credit where it’s due...@AEW has assembled an incredible roster and no shortage of compelling storylines. Strong competition brings out the best in everyone," Mick Foley tweeted.
With All Out 2021 being the most watched pay-per-view since the company's inception, AEW is riding high on momentum. It will be interesting to see how WWE reacts to what many consider to be one of the greatest pay-per-views in the recent past.
What is your opinion on Mick Foley's statement? Which company do you think is doing a better job at the moment - WWE or AEW? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.