Three names for a big TNT title feud with Wardlow

Wardlow is in need of a big opponent for a long-term feud and these are three names that would fit that role. 

When Wardlow defeated Scorpio Sky back in July during an episode of AEW Dynamite, fans were ready for him to become the force they hoped he’d become for AEW. The momentum from defeating MJF at Double or Nothing quickly dissipated because of factors outside the ring, and things haven’t been the same for the big man since. However, that could quickly change with the right challenger and these are three names that could be interesting opponents for Wardlow to face in PPV-worthy programs.

Swerve Strickland

Swerve Strickland is a main-event level performer that AEW has ready to push to the moon. His run with Keith Lee as a tag team should come to a close with Swerve going on to a title program. Unless AEW takes steps to refresh its main event scene, Swerve is a candidate that could help elevate Wardlow out of his current position with a major feud and a PPV-quality matchup. When it’s time to take the TNT Championship off Wardlow, Swerve is a perfect candidate to get the job done.

Powerhouse Hobbs

Powerhouse Hobbs is another individual that could be seen as a future challenger and TNT Champion. He needs a bit of a rebuild since dropping a big match to Ricky Starks, but with that series sitting at one win a piece, fans should expect to see them go against each other again in the near future.

Hobbs is another homegrown talent that should receive the opportunity to become a title threat, with the TNT Championship being the perfect place to start that push. To steal a phrase from Big E, Hobbs versus Wardlow would be the definition of “big meaty men, bumping meat,” and one of the biggest hoss battles to be seen in AEW yet. Put them together and let the big men battle it out.

Claudio Castagnoli

Claudio Castagnoli is coming off what was deemed a shocking defeat at the hands of Chris Jericho. Many fans expected Castagnoli to enjoy a long run as the Ring of Honor World Champion. He could have been the face the brand was built around, as he has a massive following among both hardcore and casual fans alike. Unfortunately, that run lasted 60 days, ending in a disappointing fashion.

With the right build, Castagnoli would be an interesting opponent for Wardlow. Much of his gimmick is built around his power-based offense, so watching him go power-for-power against Wardlow would be a sight to see. It’s hard to immediately determine who would go over, as it seems like Castagnoli’s place has slid a bit when it comes to current AEW booking direction. Either way, this has all the makings of a fun feud.