The never-ending WWE vs. AEW debate resurfaced this week after remarks from former WWE, WCW, and ECW star Stevie Richards prompted a sharp reaction from Kyle Fletcher.
Appearing on TMZ’s Inside The Ring,
the AEW TNT Champion was asked for his thoughts on Richards’ recent claim that WWE’s Logan Paul was better than everyone in AEW.
“I think that opinion is bullshit,” said Fletcher, who dismissed Richards’ comments as an attempt to get clicks and a reaction.
The 26-year-old Australian star said he’s astounded by the quality of matches AEW regularly puts on, making it clear he disagreed with the wrestler-turned-podcaster.
“No hate on Logan Paul, doing great stuff, good for you. He’s been in the business five years, if that. So the level that he’s performing at is insane. Do I think he’s better than Kenny Omega, Will Ospreay? Not a f***ing chance,” said Fletcher.
During an episode of his podcast, The Stevie Richards Show, Richards was asked by his co-host, James Romero, whether Paul was better than everyone in AEW. Richards answered directly, saying, “Logan Paul is better than everybody in AEW.”
When Romero asked why he felt that way, Richards replied, “Because he’s a character. I get I can hate or love Logan Paul.”
Richards also complimented Paul for his ability to debut new moves in the ring while not doing them all at once. “He doesn’t give you everything,” said Richards. “Something special happens in a Logan Paul match every time he has (one).”
Richards’ assessment wasn’t limited to just AEW. He went on to say that Paul is “better than 98% of the WWE roster as well,” and that WWE “should put the belt on Logan Paul.”
While Richards’ assertion is a stretch, especially regarding AEW and stars like “Timeless” Toni Storm, in this writer’s estimation it’s not far from the truth, either.
Why? Because Logan Paul is a character in a personality-driven business. It’s why names like Gorgeous George or the Ultimate Warrior are more familiar to casual fans than Lou Thesz or Dean Malenko.
The reality of pro wrestling is that any two competent performers can exchange moves and false finishes for a half-hour. Such a style might pop diehard fans, but it historically hasn’t brought in a broader crowd — something that remains true AEW’s declining attendance and ratings show .
Logan Paul can perform moves as well as anyone today, but it’s his knack for getting under people’s skin that sets him apart. That skill outweighs any five-star match, which is meaningless if fans don’t show up.
