The wrestling world lit up with excitement following Trick Williams’ elevation to WWE SmackDown, and the moment didn’t go unnoticed, even beyond WWE’s walls.
In a rare show of cross-promotional respect, AEW star Swerve Strickland publicly acknowledged Williams’ big move, sending fans into a frenzy.
Trick Williams, a former two-time NXT Champion whose charisma has made him one of WWE’s fastest-rising stars, officially arrived on Friday Night SmackDown on January 2, 2026. Making an immediate statement, Williams interrupted Sami Zayn during a live segment, confidently announcing his presence on the main roster and making it clear he has championship ambitions.
Not long after the debut, Swerve Strickland — one of AEW’s most recognisable names and a former AEW World Champion — took to social media with a short but powerful nod to Williams’ journey. Using the now-famous chant associated with Williams’ rise, Strickland posted:
#WhoopThatTrick
The phrase, which became synonymous with Williams during his NXT run, has evolved into one of the most recognizable chants in modern WWE, often echoed loudly by live crowds. Strickland’s use of the catchphrase immediately resonated with fans, symbolizing acknowledgment and respect from a top star in a rival promotion.
A Star Making Noise on SmackDown
Williams’ SmackDown debut was met with a strong reaction from the crowd, as he leaned fully into his confident persona, branding himself as “the sexiest entertainer alive” and positioning himself as more than just another call-up. His promo suggested that he’s targeting the top of the card rather than easing into the mid-card scene.
WWE has since teased Williams’ first in-ring main roster appearance, sparking speculation about how quickly he could become a regular fixture — and possibly a major player — on SmackDown.
Why the Moment Stands Out
Swerve Strickland’s public acknowledgment is significant in an industry often defined by rivalry and competition between promotions. Rather than tribalism, the exchange reflects a growing trend of mutual respect among elite performers, regardless of where they work.
For fans who follow both AEW and WWE, the moment adds extra intrigue to Trick Williams’ ascent. It reinforces the idea that his rise isn’t just being noticed internally by WWE, but across the broader wrestling landscape.
As Williams’ SmackDown journey unfolds, moments like this only strengthen his perception as a star whose influence — and chant — now reaches far beyond one brand.
