Shelton Benjamin wants to become World Champion in AEW

At 49 years old, Shelton Benjamin still aspires to be a World Champion.

Benjamin, who recently joined AEW, told TV Insider that his goal in the promotion is to win the first World title of his career. He isn’t in AEW to just be another person on the roster.

“I want a world title, period,” Benjamin said. “That is one of the things I got in the business for. There was this article saying I was just happy to be on the roster. Where is this BS coming from? From the day I stepped into pro wrestling, I wanted to be a world heavyweight champion. Coming to AEW, that goal has not changed. I think everyone should strive for that. I think the day I retire that is something I am going to want. If I get the opportunity, I am going to make the most of it.”

Former Hurt Business members Benjamin and MVP are back aligned in AEW — and it’s expected that Bobby Lashley will be joining them soon. Benjamin told TV Insider that his time in AEW has been great so far. He was surprised by how many familiar faces are in the promotion working behind the scenes.

“The first thing that surprised me was all these familiar faces that I didn’t realize were actually in AEW. I’m talking about writing, production and other talent I didn’t know were in AEW,” he said. “There was almost a sigh of relief because there was so much familiarity there. I was actually surprised by how comfortable I felt and how welcoming everyone was, top to bottom. So far it has been great. Everyone has been really helpful and respectful. So far it has been a great experience. I hope to continue that.”

Benjamin vs. Swerve Strickland is taking place on tonight’s Halloween-themed Fright Night edition of AEW Dynamite.

Strickland is a former AEW World Champion. The title is currently held by Jon Moxley.