Maxwell Jacob Friedman has built a career on arrogance and controversy, but when it comes to his loyalty to All Elite Wrestling, the current World Champion is surprisingly straightforward. Ahead of his appearance on AEW Dynamite in El Paso, Texas, MJF sat down for an interview with ABC-7 sports director Adrian Ochoa on KVIA, detailing exactly why he plans to remain the face of Tony Khan’s promotion.
“There’s No Leash On Me”
When pressed on why he prefers to stay with AEW despite the obvious financial and promotional opportunities available with rival companies like WWE, MJF pointed directly to the creative autonomy he is afforded. “What keeps me in AEW is my ability to be myself; there’s no leash on me,” MJF explained. “I don’t have to worry about anyone sitting me down and telling me what I am doing right or wrong.”
The two-time AEW World Champion and former International Champion emphasized his value to the company and how management respects his contributions. “My boss knows I am the draw. I have the World title right now. Ratings are up, ticket sales are up. I wonder why? He lets me do my thing. So, I don’t think I’ll ever leave,” he concluded with his signature bravado.
The 29-year-old superstar has backed up his claims with consistently high-profile performances. He is currently scheduled to defend his AEW World Championship against his bitter rival, “Hangman” Adam Page, at the upcoming AEW Revolution 2026 pay-per-view in a match that carries massive career implications for his opponent.
