While tensions between MJF and AEW continue to mount, the star has been spotted in Los Angeles ahead of AEW’s LA debut on Wednesday.
For a number of months, MJF has called on-screen attention to the fact that his contract with AEW is set to expire in 2024 and has expressed public dissatisfaction with the company. AEW President Tony Khan recently spoke to Inside the Ropes’ Kenny McIntosh during a media call and praised the star for adding an element of realism to television, but MJF responded harshly to that praise in a now-deleted tweet.
After no-showing a fan event the day before AEW Double or Nothing, it became clear that the tensions between Maxwell Jacob Friedman and AEW were deeper than a storyline frustration, and doubt was cast as to whether or not he would go through with his planned match with Wardlow. However, he did show up just before his match and left immediately after being decisively beaten in the opening bout of the pay-per-view.
Tony Khan has refused to publicly comment on the situation, and he and MJF are reportedly set to hold talks about the star’s future with the company.
A report from Wade Keller on PWTorchVIP.com revealed that much of the tension between the parties stems from MJF being upset about his contract situation, particularly the fact that multiple ex-WWE stars are making significantly more money than him despite not being as heavily featured on television. According to the report, the relationship between Khan and MJF is “fractured” and the star has appeared “withdrawn” and “disgruntled” backstage.
Now, in an update from PWInsider, it appears that MJF has in fact flown to Los Angeles ahead of AEW Dynamite’s debut in the city. This does not necessarily mean that he’ll be appearing on Dynamite after being stretchered out of the arena at Double or Nothing, but he has been spotted in the area.