Billy Gunn is no stranger to the wrestling business. With over three decades of experience, championships in multiple companies, and a legendary tag team career as one-half of the New Age Outlaws, Gunn has seen the industry evolve from the Attitude Era to today’s fast-paced, social media-driven scene. Now 62 years old and still active in AEW, Gunn isn’t afraid to speak his mind—and his latest comments pull no punches.
Billy Gunn Slams AEW Creative Direction
In a candid appearance on the All Real Wrestling Podcast, Billy Gunn gave AEW a harsh reality check. While he’s not as involved in major storylines as he once was, Gunn had a long and successful run in AEW as part of The Acclaimed, holding both the tag team and trios titles. So when he talks, people listen.
Gunn didn’t hold back when asked about AEW’s current product. He believes the company is focusing too much on pleasing the online crowd.
“What we’re doing is basing our television program off the internet and social media, which is not good. We’re not going to please everybody.”
He added that social media isn’t the best place to gauge the success or direction of a wrestling show, calling it a space filled with negativity.
“No matter what, people on social media find a reason to hate everything. Some people love me, a lot of people hate me. Why? I don’t even know them.”
AEW’s Current Storylines: Too Much Internet Influence?
Gunn’s comments come at a time when AEW is leaning heavily into online buzz and surprise moments. The recent Maximum Carnage edition of Dynamite featured the return of Kenny Omega, as well as title-related drama involving Adam Page, Swerve Strickland, and MJF, who retained his AEW World Championship in the main event.
While these moments generate social media chatter, Gunn’s concern is that the company may be losing sight of long-term storytelling and in-ring fundamentals in favour of quick viral hits.
What About The Acclaimed?
One storyline that’s flown under the radar recently is the fallout of The Acclaimed. Gunn had been closely aligned with Max Caster and Anthony Bowens during their peak, but the group has since drifted apart.
Both Caster and Bowens have gone their separate ways and struggled to find direction as singles competitors. Gunn has tried to repair the broken bond between them but hasn’t been able to make it work yet. He even took on a mentorship role for Bowens, though that hasn’t led to any major momentum either.
Gunn on Today’s Wrestlers: “They Don’t Know How to Work”
Gunn didn’t just critique AEW’s creative. He also had sharp words for modern-day wrestlers in general. According to him, many current performers lack the basic skills and psychology that older generations mastered.
“They’re lazy. A lot of them don’t know how to work properly.”
Gunn seems to feel that the newer generation is more focused on flashy moves and online attention than learning the art of storytelling inside the ring. It’s a familiar opinion from veterans, but coming from someone who’s still active at 62, it carries extra weight.
Is AEW Listening?
It’s unclear if AEW leadership, including Tony Khan, will take Gunn’s words into account. While the company has seen success with its mix of hardcore action and internet appeal, balancing that with long-term booking and veteran advice may be crucial for AEW’s future.
Gunn’s critiques echo concerns raised by other veterans in the industry, pointing to a potential gap between experience and AEW’s younger talent and leadership. Still, his involvement in AEW and his connection to rising stars means his voice could be part of a positive change—if it’s heard.
