MJF Talks AEW’s Evolution, Double Or Nothing, And His Title Legacy

BusinessSportsMoneyMJF Talks AEW’s Evolution, Double Or Nothing, And His Title LegacyByRob Wolkenbrod,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Robert Wolkenbrod is a contributor who covers professional wrestling.Follow AuthorMay 20, 2026, 09:00am EDTRyan Loco; MJF vs Kevin Knight; Fairfax, VA; AEW Dynamite; April 29, 2026 All Elite WrestlingWhen All Elite Wrestling is mentioned, MJF is almost always central to the conversation. At just 30 years old, the Long Island native has already built one of the company’s most impressive resumes since AEW launched in 2019.That profile includes two world title runs, the first of which made him the youngest world champion in AEW history. The second just wrapped in April, but not before a string of television and pay-per-view main events that delivered the quality that has become standard for MJF, who has long moved beyond being known only for his gift of gab.From a Dog Collar Match to a Texas Death Match, to headlining All In 2023 at Wembley Stadium to now starring as one of Adam Sandler’s sons in Happy Gilmore 2, it feels like he’s doing it all.His next goal is to become just the second three-time AEW World Champion when he challenges Darby Allin for the belt in the main event of Double or Nothing on Sunday, May 24. But MJF isn’t just competing for the title, as he will put his luscious hair on the line, which he must shave if he loses.Before stepping into the ring, MJF spoke with Forbes about the implications of Double or Nothing, reflecting on his two world title runs and the evolution of AEW.MJF Talks AEW’s Evolution, His Legacy, And Double Or NothingWolkenbrod: As a fellow Long Islander, I’m interested in the heavy Long Island influence on AEW’s roster. What do you think that presence says about the kind of talent that comes from the Island, and what makes Long Island stand out as a wrestling market?MORE FOR YOUMJF: Well, we’re just born better. I mean, it’s pretty simple. It's p...