The latest fan-voted Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards caused a lot of debate, but not many people expected MJF to jump into the conversation the way he did.
Booker T was voted the 2025 “Worst Television Announcer” for his work on WWE NXT. The WWE Hall of Famer received 516 votes, and he finished ahead of names like Pat McAfee, Michael Cole, Vic Joseph, and Tony Schiavone.
The criticism didn’t stop there. WWE was also voted “Worst Promotion.” John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes was named “Worst Match of the Year.” Cena’s heel turn won “Worst Gimmick,” and bringing back Brock Lesnar was called the “Most Disgusting Promotional Tactic.”
As fans react online, MJF defends Booker T with his own opinion.
MJF Praises Booker T’s Legacy Following WON Criticism
The AEW star posted on X and revealed where he stands on the topic. He said Booker T is a “blueprint” for him. MJF added that it’s fine if people don’t like Booker’s commentary style, but fans should show respect because he has earned it.
“@BookerT5x in a lot of ways is a blueprint to me. A completely homegrown top guy with massive drawing power on Warner TV without having to have worked for McMahon. If you dislike what he does in the booth, that’s fine. But You guys talk crazy on legends. Show some respect, he’s earned it,” MJF tweeted.
.@BookerT5x in a lot of ways is a blueprint to me. A completely homegrown top guy with massive drawing power on Warner TV without having to have worked for McMahon.
— Maxwell Jacob Friedman™️ (@The_MJF) February 17, 2026
If you dislike what he does in the booth, that’s fine.
But You guys talk crazy on legends.
Show some respect,…
Booker’s energetic and sometimes over-the-top style on NXT has split opinion, but MJF focused less on commentary skills and more on Booker’s overall legacy.
Booker T isn’t just a commentator; he was a top star who helped carry WCW at its peak. He became one of the few true homegrown main-event talents without first going through WWE under Vince McMahon. That clearly means something to MJF, who has built his own reputation as a self-made star in AEW.
MJF’s post also touched on a bigger issue, which is how fast criticism in wrestling can turn personal. While the Wrestling Observer awards show fans’ opinions, the reactions around them can get heated, especially when legends are involved.
Read More: MJF Opens Up About His Decision to Join AEW Over WWE
