AEW is known for making big signings, and AEW President Tony Khan seems to be interested in recruiting one of the most dominant factions from the last decade. According to Fightful Select, former WWE Champion Bobby Lashley, former US Champion MVP, and former Intercontinental Champion Shelton Benjamin, who were part of “The Hurt Business” in WWE, have been in talks with the Jacksonville-based promotion.
Moreover, Totally Harmless Concept LLC has trademarked “The Hurt Syndicate,” along with other MVP trademarks. There is no confirmation of a deal yet, but discussions have taken place. Benjamin has been a free agent since last year, but MVP and Lashley’s contracts with WWE expired last summer.
In a recent interview, MVP expressed his desire to continue wrestling and mentioned being in contact with the former members of The Hurt Business. MVP also appeared at GCW Bloodsport, challenging Bloodsport figurehead and former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett. Lashley’s last match was in May, where he defeated Santos Escobar at a WWE Live Event. Meanwhile, Benjamin has been active in independent wrestling circuits in the US and UK, including Progress’ Super Strong Style 16 Tournament, since his release in September. Following the merger of WWE and UFC into TKO Group Holdings, Benjamin, like TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth, was released.
