FTR Prepares for All Out

Dax Hardwood and Cash Wheeler are known for their unconventional approach in a wrestling world that often emphasizes flashy moves and athleticism. Collectively known as FTR, they are the reigning three-time AEW Tag Team Champions and set their sights on a fourth title reign during the upcoming event, All Out, where they’ll compete against Cope and Cage, and The Young Bucks in a three-way ladder match. I had a conversation with FTR about their views on tag team wrestling, who they consider their top influences, and how gaming shaped their partnership in the ring.

What sets FTR apart from their contemporaries is their fundamental approach to wrestling. While many teams strive for bigger and more outrageous spectacles, FTR relies on the basics—principles they learned from the original innovators of tag wrestling. They prioritize emotion and storytelling over high-risk maneuvers.

“When I step into a match, I’m not thinking about what crazy stunt I can pull off. I just want the audience to remember the feeling they had while watching us,” Dax explained.

This philosophy aligns with FTR’s motto, “No Flips, Just Fists,” though their entry into AEW was characterized by a rivalry with The Young Bucks. They made the mistake of trying to match the Bucks’ high-flying style, which didn’t turn out well for them.

“I got caught up in that first match with them,” Cash admitted. “I thought I could outdo them, and it backfired.” This mistake lingered with Wheeler, especially since they aimed to make a significant impression upon joining AEW. “It haunted me for a while; I didn’t sleep well after that. But I think I’ve learned from it. When the moment calls for more intensity, I’m ready to take a risk—even if that means going for a suicide dive if it will make a difference.”

The three-way ladder match at All Out is particularly intriguing due to the contrasting styles involved. Cage and Cope, the “veterans” of the match, were instrumental in shaping the modern tag team landscape in the early 2000s, while The Young Bucks took that evolution further. And then there’s FTR, who embody the spirit of legendary tag teams from the 70s and 80s, emphasizing teamwork and strategic maneuvers often overlooked today.

Cash reflected on what initially attracted him to tag team wrestling, reminiscing about feuds with his brothers and the importance of teamwork, which evolved as he gained experience.

“Maybe it’s the extra dynamics involved in tag team setups. There’s something special about the chemistry between partners—it’s magical when it all clicks.”

Dax’s passion for tag wrestling didn’t stem from backyard brawls but rather his childhood experiences with video games.

“I remember playing Saturday Night Slam Masters on my Super Nintendo with friends. Two of us would team up while one would pretend to be the manager—it was a bonding experience that sparked my love for tag wrestling.”

This deep-rooted passion for tag team wrestling is part of what led Dax and Cash to AEW. When they joined the promotion in 2021, the landscape for tag teams was shifting. Other companies criticized long matches and the complexity of teamwork. However, AEW embraced tag wrestling, making it a cornerstone of their shows, partly due to the presence of The Young Bucks.

“Things are more vibrant in AEW now than ever before, and that’s the honest truth,” Hardwood remarked. “We’re seeing young teams like the Gunn Club and the Rascalz trying to carve out their space, while also competing with legendary teams like us, The Young Bucks, and Cope and Cage. Plus, you have The New Day and the Motor City Machine Guns—just an incredible array of talent under one roof, which positions AEW as the hub for tag team wrestling.”

Recently, FTR’s dynamic shifted with the addition of manager Stokely Hathaway, adding a unique element to their partnership. FTR represents a serious, traditional wrestling style, while Hathaway brings a lighter touch and entertainment value. They are, however, quick to dismiss the idea that mixing their styles is like combining oil and water.

“I have to disagree with you,” Dax said with certainty. “I knew it would work. We had pitched the idea of bringing Stokely on back in the other company, but it didn’t happen. When his contract was up, we jumped at the chance to advocate for him again.”

“I told Tony it would be a great fit for our team, and not just for AEW as a whole,” Dax continued.

Cash added, “Stokely’s a savvy businessman and incredibly talented. He can be both serious and comedic, which adds a fresh element to our partnership.”

Both agree it’s been one of the most enjoyable phases of their careers working with him. Dax stated, “I can’t imagine moving forward without Stokely by our side.”

As for their personal ‘Mt. Rushmores’ of wrestling, FTR focuses heavily on tag teams due to their own profession. When asked about their top four teams, both easily mentioned:

“The Rock and Roll Express due to their remarkable matches and box office appeal,” Dax noted. “The Midnight Express because they revolutionized tag team wrestling. If you ask legends like Ricky Morton or Robert Gibson, they’d say Dennis Condry was pivotal in leading the charge in the 80s.”

They also referenced Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard, but diverged slightly in their lists. Dax begrudgingly recognized The Young Bucks’ role in evolving tag wrestling, while Cash expressed admiration for The Hart Foundation.

“Tomorrow, I might change my mind,” Cash remarked, “because I’m also a huge fan of Dr. Death and Bam Bam Gordy.”

The past offers them respect, their future is hopeful, yet they remain grounded in their current moment. This weekend, they have the chance to become four-time AEW tag team champions, but they know it won’t be easy. There’s uncertainty in the air, with fierce opponents ahead—but they’re committed to going in with fists, not flips, at All Out.

All Elite Wrestling All Out takes place on Saturday, September 26, live from Hoffman Estates, Illinois starting at 8 p.m. ET. The pre-show will stream live on YouTube at 7 p.m. ET.