WWE wrestling legend Ric Flair is once again speaking out against his former employer, this time claiming that the company is actively working to “kill” his legacy. The 16-time world champion has been a vocal critic of WWE in recent years, but his latest comments are some of the most scathing to date.
Flair’s comments come on the heels of a recent social media post where he expressed his gratitude towards All Elite Wrestling (AEW) president Tony Khan for helping to preserve his legacy. The post was met with a mix of support and criticism from fans and fellow wrestlers alike, with some accusing Flair of being disloyal to WWE.
However, insiders close to Flair suggest that his frustration with WWE stems from a perceived lack of support and respect for his contributions to the company. According to a WWE insider, Flair has long felt that his legacy has been undervalued by the company, and that he is not given the recognition he deserves.
“Ric has always felt like he’s been taken for granted by WWE,” the insider said. “He’s a 16-time world champion and one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, but he feels like his contributions are constantly overlooked. He’s frustrated that he’s not given the same level of respect and recognition as some of the newer talent.”
Flair’s comments about AEW are not surprising, given the company’s willingness to give him a platform and showcase his talents. AEW has long been seen as a more wrestler-friendly promotion than WWE, and Flair has been vocal about his appreciation for the company’s approach.
“Tony Khan has been a game-changer for me,” Flair said in a statement. “He’s given me the respect and recognition that I’ve always deserved, and I’m grateful for that. AEW is a company that truly values its talent, and it’s an honor to be a part of it.”
Flair’s relationship with WWE has been complicated in recent years. He was a key figure in the company’s Attitude Era, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. However, his last few years with the company were marked by controversy and drama, including a high-profile feud with Randy Orton.
Since his departure from WWE, Flair has appeared on several AEW shows, including a recent match against CM Punk. His appearances have been met with widespread acclaim, and many fans have credited him with helping to elevate the company’s profile.
While Flair’s comments about WWE are certainly provocative, they’re not entirely unexpected. The company has long been criticized for its handling of legacy talent, and Flair’s situation is far from unique.
According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, WWE has been working to distance itself from its legacy acts in recent years. The company has opted to focus on younger talent, and has largely phased out its older stars.
” WWE has always been a company that’s driven by the bottom line,” one source said. “If they can make a profit off of younger talent, they’re going to go with that. Legacy acts like Ric Flair are seen as a cost, not an asset.”
Flair’s situation is a symptom of a larger issue within WWE. The company’s treatment of legacy talent has been a topic of debate for years, with many arguing that they’re not given the respect and recognition they deserve.
As for Flair, he’s made it clear that he’s happy to be a part of AEW. His future with the company is uncertain, but one thing is clear: he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
“I’m grateful to Tony Khan and the entire AEW team for giving me a platform to showcase my talents,” Flair said. “I’m proud to be a part of a company that truly values its talent, and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”
In conclusion, Ric Flair’s comments about WWE and AEW are just the latest chapter in a long and complicated saga. While his relationship with WWE remains tumultuous, it’s clear that he’s found a new home in AEW. Whether or not WWE will take note of Flair’s comments remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the wrestling world is watching with bated breath.