Dustin Rhodes has been in the game for decades, but he’s calling out one modern problem he says is hurting pro wrestling more than helping it—tribalism.
During his appearance on Close Up with Renee Paquette, the AEW veteran didn’t mince words when talking about the toxic split between WWE and AEW fans, and how it keeps people from appreciating what’s actually happening behind the curtain.
Toward the end of the interview, Renee asked Dustin why he’s so loyal to AEW and what keeps him so motivated in the company. That’s when he got real about the uphill battle they face—not from within, but from outside noise.
“And I feel it every single day. And you know with all the tribalism out there about the other place and us and what’s good, what’s bad, whatever — they have no idea how hard we work and what goes on back.”
Dustin made it clear: this isn’t just some indie show trying to survive. AEW is growing fast, and the work ethic is real.
“I mean we’re a startup company. This is our sixth year. We are growing every single year, doing amazing, making huge amounts of money, working all over the world.”
And for Dustin, this isn’t just another paycheck. This is where he wants to finish what he started.
“It is a place I want to be and finish my career.”
The comment hits especially hard coming from someone who’s worked in both WWE and AEW. Dustin’s not claiming one is better—he’s saying the constant back-and-forth online keeps fans from seeing the grind, the growth, and the global impact AEW is making.
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