As the new AEW world champion, Swerve Strickland made his debut on Collision, with a warm welcome from the live audience at Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida. The crowd greeted him with chants of “Thank you, Swerve!” and he took the time to reflect on AEW’s recent events, including Jack Perry’s surprise return and The Elite’s attack on Tony Khan, which he called a “bitch move.”
During the show, Swerve issued an open challenge for a world title match that was accepted by Claudio Castagnoli. The two superstars put on an incredible match that ended with Swerve ultimately retaining his title after hitting the House Call. It remains to be seen whether Swerve’s comments about The Elite will have immediate consequences or if they are setting the stage for future storylines.
On May 1st, we will find out who Swerve will be defending his title against at May’s Double or Nothing pay-per-view. What are your thoughts on Swerve’s first night as AEW world champion? Share your opinions with us here on Cagesiders!