Swerve Strickland discusses AEW's backstage environment after recent incident

All Elite Wrestling has had its share of behind-the-scenes controversy over the past few years, with stories of disagreements between talent circulating at least every few months. However, on the Barstool podcast “Wrasslin'” ahead of AEW All In, Swerve Strickland explained that they get along well in the locker room and that the stories are exaggerated.

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“I think everything was definitely exploited — a lot of it was definitely over the top,” Strickland said. “To me, it's almost calculated down to the smallest detail. Right before every pay-per-view, right before every big moment that we have, something always comes out. Because it's like there's always arguments in the locker room — I'm pretty sure that's universal in the workplace.”

The difference, according to Strickland, is that most workplaces don't post their interpersonal drama online for people to gossip about. In addition, Strickland explained that the heightened emotions behind the scenes are the result of people's passion for their jobs.

“I’d rather people worry and get upset about something than not care at all,” Strickland continued.

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While it's OK for people to talk about what happens behind the scenes, Strickland was adamant that what really matters is the product the company presents to its fans. He'll be happy as long as the company continues to grow.

Tonight's AEW All In Zero Hour pre-show featured a notable moment for Strickland as he signed his latest AEW contract live on air. Hours later, Strickland lost to Bryan Danielson in the main event of AEW All In, ending his reign as AEW World Champion.