Our Scumbag Is No Scumbag At All: Why You Should Read MJF’s Piece In The Players’ Tribune
If you’ve been following the world of professional wrestling, chances are you’ve come across the name Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known as MJF. The self-proclaimed “Salt of the Earth” has been making waves in the industry, not just for his in-ring skills but also for his candid take on All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and its impact. Recently, MJF penned an article for The Players’ Tribune, and trust me, it’s must-read. Seriously, I cried.
Go read it now before you dive into my humble mark ramblings about it. Read every bit of it. Hell, read it twice. I’ll wait…
Unveiling MJF’s Unfiltered Thoughts
In his piece titled “I Have Some Things to Say, Please Read,” MJF doesn’t hold back. He starts by acknowledging a significant milestone: AEW turning five on January 1, 2024. “AEW turns FIVE on Monday — and that f*cking means something to me,” he passionately declares.
The article isn’t just a celebration; it’s a deep dive into why AEW matters to him and the wrestling industry. MJF sheds light on the criticism AEW faces, and why he believes it’s essential for the growth and evolution of wrestling.
AEW Through MJF’s Eyes: Love & Criticism
MJF’s love for AEW is palpable. He emphasizes the impact the promotion has had on wrestlers and the industry. In his own words, he implies AEW is more than just a wrestling company; it’s a beacon of hope for those who want to see the industry thrive on a different platform. The Players’ Tribune story adds fuel to the speculative fire. As detailed in Sports Illustrated, rumors circulate that MJF might announce a new deal with AEW soon, reinforcing the belief that he sees a long and prosperous future with the company.
MJF also addresses AEW’s critics in the piece. He reflects on how AEW has improved the wrestling landscape. He acknowledges that not everyone may like AEW as a product, and that’s okay. However, he vehemently states that wishing for its downfall is not the solution. It’s a sentiment echoed by fans who appreciate MJF’s straightforward approach. On forums like WrestlingMarks, enthusiasts discuss the impact of MJF’s words and how it reflects the larger sentiment among wrestling aficionados.
MJF vs Real World Hate
In an unexpected turn within the pages of The Players’ Tribune, MJF fearlessly delves into his personal beliefs, revealing a stance that has sparked both admiration (from me, at least) and some criticism from a few users on reddit. Beyond the wrestling ring, he mentions not supporting Zionism when listing off hateful ideologies and their outcomes, a stance that is being scrutinized as antisemitic by some. Surely the irony is not lost on MJF, but that is purely speculation on my part. The way he lumps this hate filled inventory together brings emphasis to the complexity of his real human identity and compassion,
“Allow me to say this, straight up, point blank: I don’t support terrorism, Zionism, genocide, war, bombs, genocidal governments, dead innocent Palestinians, dead innocent Israelis. I don’t support people — any people — dying because of hate. I’ll tell you what I do support, and what I definitely am: I’m anti-hate.”
He goes on to reveal that he is in love with a Palestinian woman. This boldness in addressing such a sensitive topic adds a layer of depth not to his character, but to how we perceive his actual character, as another person weathering through this horrid/beautiful world along with us. MJF knows what it is like to suffer as a Jewish person, and he seems to have opened his heart to what it is to suffer as a Palestinian person. It opens a discussion about what the difference is between Zionism and Judaism. Was he tactful, still, in these revelations? Yes, but it takes a brave soul to challenge not only the conventional norms within the wrestling world but even more so the societal norms and expectations in our country and a couple of other places around the world.
MJF’s willingness to discuss his views, irrespective of potential backlash, showcases a level of authenticity rarely seen in the world of professional wrestling — and in real life, frankly. His words encourage readers to reconsider preconceived notions and engage in critical discussions surrounding identity and belief systems inside and out of the squared circle. This section expands on an already compelling dimension to MJF.
The Future & MJF’s Impact
Some have speculated about MJF’s future after reading the article. A post on the Jim Cornette subreddit interprets it as potentially signaling a farewell. While everything but his words are purely speculation at this point, it is clear that MJF thinks some fans need to recognize the importance of supporting AEW rather than wishing for its failure.
MJF’s piece in The Players’ Tribune provides a rare glimpse into the mind of a wrestler DEEPLY invested in AEW’s success. It’s not just a celebration of the promotion’s milestone; it’s a heartfelt defense against its critics and a testament to why AEW matters to the wrestling world.
With his unapologetic style, MJF challenges the status quo and advocates for a wrestling landscape that evolves and grows. Whether or not this signals a farewell, his words spark conversations and reflections within and outside the wrestling community. So, if you haven’t read MJF’s take on AEW, do yourself a favor and dive into the unfiltered thoughts of this self-proclaimed scumbag who might just be the hero the Professional Wrestling world needs. He might teach you something about what it is to be a human being, too.
In the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, MJF’s voice is a reminder that behind the characters and storylines, passion and dedication will drive the industry forward.
