The Cool One Reflects on AEW’s Journey and Future
As Orange Cassidy prepares to face AEW champion Jon Moxley in New Jersey at Full Gear on November 23, he spoke with amNewYork Metro about the history and future of the company.
Growing Pains and Evolution
All Elite Wrestling is now five years old, and Cassidy acknowledges that the company is currently in its "teenage years," figuring out its identity. "It’s tough for AEW because of how fast the company grew and for how successful it has been in just under five years. We’re growing and we’re changing, and we’re going through that weird middle school age of figuring out who you are and do you want your hair short or long," Cassidy said. "It’s important that AEW just takes the natural evolution, and we don’t try to force anything."
A Legacy Built on Character
Cassidy’s laid-back demeanor and devil-may-care attitude have made him a fan favorite. His character is reminiscent of wrestlers from past generations, and fans relate to him on a deeper level. "The age that I loved professional wrestling, it was about the character, it was who they were in the ring. That’s who I related to," Cassidy said. "I think the most iconic professional wrestlers are the ones that you can dress up for at Halloween."
From the Independent Circuit to the Mainstage
Cassidy’s journey from wrestling on the independent circuit to becoming a global sensation has been meteoric. He’s traveled the world, with fans in countries like England and Australia dressing up as him for Halloween. "I don’t think I’ll ever get used to it, having somebody from all across the world be like, ‘oh, I dressed up like you for Halloween, or I bought your T-shirt,’" Cassidy said.
The Road to Full Gear
Cassidy’s next challenge comes in the form of Jon Moxley, a multi-time champion and bad boy of the company. Despite Moxley’s underhanded tactics, Cassidy is confident in his abilities. "I am tied to Jon Moxley forever. He is the person that actually changes me. I am not the same wrestler after I get done going to war with him inside the professional wrestling ring. I’ve done the best I can these past couple of months to kind of give myself the advantage, and for all those people that are watching throughout the weeks, I think you kind of understand where I was going and what I was doing," Cassidy said.
Conclusion
As Orange Cassidy prepares to face Jon Moxley at Full Gear, he remains confident in his abilities and the future of All Elite Wrestling. With his unique character and laid-back attitude, he has become a fan favorite around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is your take on All Elite Wrestling’s current state?
A: AEW is in its "teenage years," figuring out its identity and growing at a rapid pace.
Q: What makes your character so relatable to fans?
A: My character is reminiscent of wrestlers from past generations, and fans relate to me on a deeper level.
Q: How do you feel about fans dressing up as you for Halloween?
A: I’m humbled by it, and it’s amazing to see fans around the world wanting to emulate me.
Q: How do you approach your match against Jon Moxley at Full Gear?
A: I’ve prepared myself to the best of my ability, and I’m confident in my abilities against Moxley.
