Recent reports have stirred up speculation about internal tensions surrounding The Hurt Syndicate, particularly focusing on MVP’s growing backstage reputation and influence on creative decisions. Over the last several months, conversations have circulated among talent and insiders regarding MVP’s behind-the-scenes conduct. According to several sources, his presence has reportedly caused friction with other members of the locker room – a sentiment that’s been echoed on wrestling-focused Twitter Spaces and confirmed independently by Fightful Select. While MVP is at the center of these reports, Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin have largely remained outside the spotlight in this regard.
One of the more pointed claims involves MVP’s apparent dislike for “Speedball” Mike Bailey. Multiple wrestlers have stated that MVP made his feelings about Bailey well known and was particularly resistant to the idea of The Hurt Syndicate losing to JetSpeed – Bailey’s tag team with Kevin Knight. However, it’s important to clarify that no official plans for that match outcome were ever confirmed, and there’s no clear explanation as to why MVP harbors those feelings.
Despite the tension, several talent members have gone on record saying the overall locker room atmosphere in 2025 has been the healthiest it’s been in years. Most seem to be brushing off isolated issues rather than allowing them to fester into division.
On the creative side, various scenarios involving The Hurt Syndicate and other top tag teams have been discussed internally, but it’s unclear how far any of them progressed. Among the pitches was an idea for FTR to win the AEW World Tag Team Championship at All In, beginning a redemption arc that would eventually lead them to high-profile matches against teams like Cope & Christian. A major component of that plan originally included a marquee bout with Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay – but Ospreay’s neck injury rendered those ideas unworkable.
As plans evolved, it became evident that MVP preferred to have his team drop the titles to younger, up-and-coming duos rather than more established acts. Names floated in those conversations included The Gates of Agony, The Outrunners, and Private Party. Interestingly, The Hurt Syndicate had already notched victories over each of those teams, leading to skepticism about whether those suggestions were meant to elevate others or simply avoid high-profile losses.
There were also discussions around possibly dropping the titles to Swerve and Ospreay, but Ospreay’s injury ruled out any momentum in that direction.
What’s frustrated some within the company is the perception that The Hurt Syndicate, as heels, have drifted too far into “cool villain” territory – dominating opponents in-ring, but still playing to the crowd and handing out high-fives. It’s created confusion about their intended role in storylines and how they’re supposed to be received.
Despite all the speculation, there’s currently no indication that The Hurt Syndicate is looking to exit the company. All three members are said to be under multi-year contracts, with plenty of time left on their deals.
Meanwhile, past plans involving MJF’s alignment with the faction appear to have shifted. While early booking hints suggested a longer alliance, sources confirm that there’s no heat between MJF and The Hurt Syndicate. Their parting appears to have been strictly creative, not personal.
Also Read: After Hulk Hogan, MVP Reveals He Doesn’t Like Another WWE Hall Of Famer
