MJF credits himself for AEW's recent surge

MJF recently returned to AEW programming following a lengthy layoff due to injury. His return coincided with the company's best run of 2024. There appears to be some momentum building behind the growth of Dynamite and, as a result, Collision is picking up steam, too.

When speaking to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated , MJF took credit for the current surge AEW is experiencing.

"People need MJF. It’s that simple," MJF said. "This company needs MJF. Fortunately, they’ve got me. What’s this company without MJF? It’s boring. This is the most people have talked about my company in months. Thank me later. If you’re not going to give me my just due now, you’ll have to when it’s all said and done.”

MJF's comments come after an exceptional hourlong match against Will Ospreay at Dynamite 250 on July 17. MJF won the international championship courtesy of the Dynamite diamond ring, getting the three count with two seconds remaining on the clock.

The match earned rave reviews on social media and produced countless conversations surrounding AEW and a potential rivalry between the two stars.

While he was certainly in character for his interview with Barrasso, MJF's comments are partially true. It wasn't until he returned from injury that AEW started to pick up steam. Sure, it had other storylines simmering away, but with MJF, any angle can be turned into a box-office series of matches. The fact that Adam Cole is yet to return and re-ignite his feud with MJF and the Undisputed Kingdom will ensure fans stick around for the time being to see how it all plays out.

MJF, who confirmed to Fox in June that he re-signed with AEW, has the unmatched ability to resonate with the fanbase and create viral moments to draw in new eyes. He brings an edge to the programming and is constantly among the best viewing within professional wrestling each week.

“Look, it was a very easy decision for me, mainly because Tony Khan is paying me an exorbitant amount of money,” MJF told Fox of his decision to stick with the company. “But outside of that, I also believe in AEW. I believe that it’s where the best wrestle. I believe that we have some of the most top-tier elite talent you get to see in the world today.”

While he may not be solely responsible for AEW's recent upturn, his presence has helped. The best part is that there's still a lot more to come from him and the company.