Johnny TV Opens Up: The Challenges of Standing Out in a Crowded Wrestling Landscape
All Elite Wrestling’s Johnny TV (John Morrison) recently shared his frustrations with limited television time, sparking a wider conversation about roster management and utilization in professional wrestling. Speaking on the Insight with Chris Van Vliet podcast, Morrison expressed feeling “underutilized” within AEW, despite actively competing in other promotions like ROH and CMLL.
The “Island” of AEW Talent
Morrison described a dynamic within AEW where a select group of wrestlers are consistently featured – a group he jokingly refers to as being “on the island.” He acknowledges this isn’t a fault of AEW CEO Tony Khan, but rather an inherent limitation of television time. “There’s only enough TV time for a certain amount of people,” he explained. This sentiment highlights a common challenge for performers in large wrestling rosters: breaking through and securing consistent screen time.
Currently, Morrison estimates he’s operating at 10-20% of his potential within AEW, creatively and in-ring. This contrasts sharply with his experience in CMLL, where he feels he’s given more opportunities to showcase his abilities. His recent hair vs. Hair match against Angel del Oro, though resulting in a loss and a shaved head, was described as “one of the best matches I’ve had in years” and a moment where he felt truly “like me again.”
Beyond AEW: A Broader Trend of Wrestler Frustration
Johnny TV’s situation isn’t unique. Many wrestlers, even those at the top of the industry, have voiced concerns about creative control and consistent booking. The competitive nature of professional wrestling, combined with the demands of weekly television, often leads to performers feeling sidelined or underappreciated. This can lead to wrestlers seeking opportunities elsewhere, as seen with numerous departures and arrivals across different promotions.
Morrison’s willingness to compete in ROH and CMLL demonstrates a proactive approach to staying sharp and fulfilling his creative needs. This multi-promotion strategy is becoming increasingly common, allowing wrestlers to maintain momentum and visibility even when opportunities within their primary promotion are limited.
The Value of International Exposure
Morrison’s work in CMLL is particularly noteworthy. The partnership between AEW and CMLL provides a valuable outlet for AEW talent to gain experience, refine their skills, and connect with a different audience. This exposure can reinvigorate a wrestler’s career and bring fresh ideas back to AEW. The hair vs. Hair match, for example, allowed Morrison to perform in a style and format not typically seen in AEW, leading to a renewed sense of fulfillment.
This trend of cross-promotional collaboration is likely to continue, as wrestling promotions recognize the benefits of expanding their reach and providing their talent with diverse opportunities.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Johnny TV?
Despite feeling underutilized, Johnny TV remains optimistic about his future. He still believes he has the potential to grow a World Champion in either AEW or WWE and continues to develop match ideas for the AEW roster. His last AEW TV appearance was in a trios match on AEW Collision in November 2025, and his most recent ROH match occurred in January.
FAQ
Q: Is Johnny TV leaving AEW?
A: Johnny TV has not announced any plans to leave AEW, but he has expressed feeling underutilized.
Q: What is “the island” Johnny TV refers to?
A: “The island” is a term used within AEW to describe the group of wrestlers who are consistently featured on television.
Q: Has Johnny TV had a successful run in AEW?
A: Johnny TV joined AEW full-time in 2023 and has been part of the MxM TV stable, but has had an inconsistent television presence.
Q: What promotions is Johnny TV currently working with?
A: Johnny TV is currently working with AEW, ROH, and CMLL.
Did you recognize? Johnny TV lost a hair vs. Hair match in CMLL and was subsequently shaved bald.
Pro Tip: Wrestlers often supplement their income and maintain their skills by working with multiple promotions.
What are your thoughts on Johnny TV’s situation? Share your opinions in the comments below! Explore more wrestling news and analysis on our site. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive content.
