The Salt of the Earth faces a credibility crisis

Double or Nothing is five days away. AEW needs a win, and for all the talk of internal friction, their biggest star remains the only person capable of cutting through the noise. MJF has spent the last month positioning himself not just as a headline act, but as the architect of the promotion's future.

He recently told interviewers that there was a massive shift in 2019 during the company's inception and that we are currently witnessing an equally significant transition in 2026. This confidence is his signature brand. He claimed a new era is forming, yet his booking remains a point of contention among those tracking the promotion's creative direction.

The WWE elephant in the room

You cannot talk about the company's prospects without addressing the magnetism of the opposition. Wrestling fans obsessed with the what-if scenarios regarding his contract status continue to drive the discourse. It is a tired narrative, but one he feeds by stating, there is something very enchanting about never going to WWE.

This is a tactical choice. By distancing himself from the industry leader, he elevates his own position as a pillar of a movement. He is gambling on his own ability to define what it means to be a top-tier draw outside the Stamford machine. If he falters on Sunday, that claim loses its bite.

A voice outside the ring

MJF is also leaning into his reputation for speaking his mind on volatile real-world issues. He has made it clear that he stands against the current leadership in Israel, specifically criticizing Netanyahu. As noted by WrestlingNews.co, he is not afraid to alienate portions of the base to stay true to his personal stance. This authenticity is why he commands such a distinct connection with the audience.

However, the skepticism remains fair. Can he carry a main event when the company's television numbers are fluctuating? Relying on one man for a "shift" is a dangerous strategy. If the supporting card fails to deliver on May 24, no amount of charisma will mask the structural fatigue.

The Prediction

I am expecting a brutalizing victory. MJF will win by submission via the Salt of the Earth. He does not need a clean pinfall to prove his dominance. He needs to embarrass his opponent, make the fans hate him, and remind the audience why he is the only guy who can sustain a brand on his own ego. It will be the 14th minute of the match where he finally locks in the hold. He’s going to hold the title tight, walk out, and leave everyone wondering if he’s truly staying or just playing us all for fools.